THE CONSERVATIVE candidate for the new Reading Central seat says he will prioritise the town if he is elected.
Raj Singh has been a Reading Borough Council councillor for Kentwood since 2018, and says he is honoured to have been selected by his party.
“As a Conservative, I believe in a small state, lower taxes, rule of law and the right to live with dignity,” he said.
“I was born prematurely in a small Indian village, and the doctors gave me a week to live. However, I defied those odds. My resilience and refusal to give up defines my conservative spirit.
“I will be on the side of Reading residents, fighting for them with the same spirit. Reading is my home. I live, rest, and work with my wife and my six-year-old son.
“I hold a master’s degree in Business and IT and work in cybersecurity. I’m at the frontline of protecting our country’s businesses from Russian and Chinese cyberattacks.
“Today, I am what I am because of the fantastic opportunities that Britain gave me. I know that Reading’s residents are disillusioned with politics and with politicians, and are looking for change.”
Mr Singh said that if elected, he would put constituency issues over Westminster politics.
“You deserve a parliamentarian who will wholeheartedly champion your cause, no matter how controversial the issue,” he said. “Unlike Matt Rodda, who does what Keir Starmer tells him to do and fails to hold the Labour-run Reading Council accountable for their disastrous policies, I will be standing for the residents.”
He said his record showed his actions, citing:
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Initiating a petition to reinstate 30 minutes of free parking in Tilehurst, which received 4,000 signatures.
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Introducing a motion to improve road safety for elderly and young families.
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‘Spearheading’ a petition with over 1,000 signatures to preserve green spaces from excessive development.
Mr Singh added: “During the recent floods, I coordinated welfare checks for residents in collaboration with the council and emergency services.
“These actions demonstrate my ability to advocate persuasively and get things done for our residents.
“I have consistently held the council accountable for their anti-motorist policies and advocated for fair treatment and better infrastructure for all road users.
“On the doorsteps, Reading residents told me what are their priorities for Reading Central, their priorities are my priorities which include:
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Energising our local economy, championing our businesses, and revitalising the town centre.
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More homes for young families tailored to local needs.
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More policing, stronger sentences, safer streets.
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Improving our local healthcare and social care support.
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Holding the Labour-run Reading Borough Council accountable for the condition of roads, pavements, and local infrastructure.
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Preventing flooding on our streets and addressing sewage issues in our rivers.
“Labour and Matt Rodda are busy campaigning in the neighbouring constituencies, taking Reading residents’ votes for granted. Reading Central residents deserve an MP with a proven track record of getting things done and who prioritises people over politics.
“On July 4, the choice is between continuity with the Labour Candidate or change with me.”
Also standing in Reading Central are: Adam Gillman (Trade Union and Socialist Coalition), ), Dave McElroy (Green), Matt Rodda (Labour), Michael Turberville (Independent), Andrew Williams (Reform UK), Henry Wright (Lib Dem).
