Friends, this is my last column ahead of the local elections and our group elections that follow.
The light at the end of this pandemic tunnel is in sight as the Government moves to lift the toughest ‘command and control’ measures we have seen since World War Two.
The centralised approach has ranged from daily appearances on TV giving us the latest count of casualties to central contracts to deliver personal protective equipment (PPE). Councils have helped deliver food to our residents, succour to our businesses and support to orderly lines of more than 17 million people queuing for vaccinations.
“We are asking ministers not to stand in the way of fair, covid-safe campaigning”
Is there developing a more centralised approach with reorganisation of councils, and sweeping changes to planning, health and funding? I hope not.
As Spring and the May local elections arrive together, let’s create a more positive local approach, keeping the independence of our local government, led by you who will serve your residents well.
If candidates are only elected from the big national parties, they may struggle to stand up independently thereafter.
That’s why colleagues and I have written to the Government asking ministers not to stand in the way of fair, covid-safe campaigning.
The vital information and connections made during campaigning are the foundation for residents to work with their councillor over the following years, creating a sound recovery in a green, safe environment.
Independents do a tremendous job of listening and representing people over politics and I wish everyone standing good luck in the elections ahead.