James Hockney is Conservative candidate for next week's Barnsley Central by-election.
We have been having a great campaign so far here in Barnsley Central and it has been fantastic to meet so many local residents whether it is on their doorstep, in the town centre or out and about in Barnsley market. The team and I are working hard to canvas across the constituency and we’ve welcomed many activists coming from all over the country to help the campaign.
Last Thursday we were joined by the Party Chairman, Baroness Warsi, for a walkabout in the town centre where we met and chatted with many local people about their concerns and issues. And on Saturday, despite the cold weather and even a few brief snow showers, our street stall at the local Asda was well supported.
For what is supposed to be a Labour stronghold, I have been met with a great deal of Conservative support. Many Labour voters feel let down and have told me that they are likely to stay at home in protest at Labour’s record. After all, not only have they left the country paying £120 million each day just on the interest on their debt, but locally the Labour council has more than doubled council tax since 1997. And as well as these hikes, the council has wasted money on a number of things – like the £32,000 they spent on a giant ‘art’ clock that no-one can read.
I believe, however, that in these tough times Barnsley Council should be doing all it can to help out families and pensioners by bringing in a council tax freeze – that would be a real aid to people here.
I know Barnsley, having campaigned here previously, and I have a real understanding of the issues and concerns that affect people here. I run my own small business and launched the 'shop local' campaign last year so I understand first hand what it takes to get the local economy moving again. That’s why I’m fighting for jobs and investment here in Barnsley.
While it’s a hard road to a better Britain, this Government has started to get us back on the right track. Barnsley deserves better than Labour, so do what you can to help us hold them to account.
Anyone wishing to assist James's campaign should email [email protected]. The campaign centre is situated at The Coach House, Berneslai Close (Off Churchfield), Barnsley, S70 2BQ, which is ten minutes from Barnsley railway station and easily accessible from the M1. Should you not be able to make the trip, you can also email to offer to do telephone canvassing from wherever you happen to be.
