AN INDEPENDENT candidate in the forthcoming general election is calling on people to change the way they vote to get change.
Adrian Abbs, who is standing in the new seat of Reading West and Mid Berkshire, has published a manifesto of pledges showcasing his approach should he be elected in the forthcoming general election.
The former Liberal Democrat has put himself forward, saying that the current set-up uses FUD – fear, uncertainty and doubt – to try and get voters to back the status quo.
“The parties will be throwing mud at each other, arguing about or promising things they don’t really control and not answering questions directly, essentially demonstrating what we dislike about politics,” he wrote.
“Whoever wins is bound by the party they represent. We often hear about the whips in parliament telling MPs which way to vote.
“I’ll use Laura Farris and Alok Sharma as local examples. They voted according to party lines on almost every occasion. Including voting in favour of continuing to allow sewage discharges.
“Their political careers seem to take priority.
“My time as an MP won’t be like that.”
Among his priorities are aiming to be representative of all views as his constituents come from a diverse range of areas including Tilehurst, Norcot and Kentwood in Reading, and 15 rural locations in West Berkshire.
“As an independent MP, I will make sure every type of voice is represented,” he wrote.
He says he would look at tailoring solutions to meet local challenges, build cross-party alliances, and have integrity.
On accountability and transparency, he wrote: “As an independent MP one of my top priorities is to earn your trust. I promise to work in a transparent
and accountable manner, responsible to my constituents. My life experience and direction from the community will drive my decisions. Constituents’ needs will come before mine.”
This will also feed into his aspiration to be a “great constituency MP”.
“As an independent, I want to reinvigorate civic engagement, encouraging residents to participate in shaping their own destiny by working closely with me,” he wrote.
“As an independent MP I will be a tireless champion of our communities. I want to be part of the solution, not the problem, and a true servant of the people,” he continued “To make your vote count and make that difference, then consider supporting me.”
Mr Abbs’ website is: https://adrianabbs.uk
He is one of a number of candidates who will be standing in the forthcoming general election. They include Olivia Bailey for Labour, Helen Belcher for the Liberal Democrats, and Ross Mackinnon for the Conservatives.
