The battle for Hillingdon

Cllr David Simmonds reports from the front line.

Hillingdon has three MPs and sixty-five councillors up for election on May 6th and for the first time, boundary changes mean that the Council and parliamentary election is not within the same boundaries, some wards of Harrow borough forming part of the Ruislip, Northwood and Pinner seat. Our three MPs have been on the 'saints' list over parliamentary expenses so this is not proving a major issue on the doorsteps, although the general level of cynicism about politics is noticeable higher.

Both Conservative MPs have pretty solid majorities and are well regarded. Hayes and Harlington had a Conservative MP from 1983 to 1997 and one of our Council cabinet members is the candidate against Labour loony lefty John McDonnell. So far the level of support is promising, especially amongst the ethnic minorities who form a major part of the population of the constituency.

The theme of the Council campaign is 'Putting Residents First' and builds on the profile developed by the Conservative administration since 2006. In this time we introduced the first pensioner tax discount, the first resident's assisted home buying scheme, the first two year tax freeze, and have opened new swimming pools, youth clubs, and libraries - a record we feel proud. Our 5,000 signed-up street champions have helped cement the relationship with our public and we feel confident of being returned to office, accepting that the context of higher voter turnout and the national picture will influence what happens on May 6th.