Election 2010
Candidate election statement -
Vision for the Future
I am not optimistic about the future of our national economy. In particular I am concerned that the underlying rise in oil and gas prices could, in the years ahead, have a serious effect on the UK’s position given our net requirement for import.
I would therefore want to take a prudent approach for the Western Isles and make preparation for a time of shortage remembering that it is not that long ago that our forebears had very little but were very resourceful and caring with what they had.
In a spirit of co-
The foundation of that footing for me is energy – self sufficiency in the first instance;
which can be achieved at community and individual level – and then export ; which
will require a sub-
We have to take seriously our God-
Innovative Action Now
There is also a need to work together on innovative and sustainable solutions to our everyday problems and to enhance our research and development capability to provide commercial viability.
As an example, one of my aspirations is to develop a network of yachting infrastructure around the Hebrides. This would attract visiting sailors from outwith the islands and act as a gateway to the northern isles and even the Faroe isles. It would also provide work opportunities in the maintenance, storage and crewing of vessels.
Economy
Our national economy is in serious disarray and it is not all down to the banking crisis. If you look at the UK Public Borrowing from 1997 you will see that it has gone from less than 1% of GDP in 1997 to about 7% in 2008 and 14% in 2010. We are currently among the worst in Europe and no matter who gets into power painful action will be required to get the deficit back to a sustainable level.
The pursuit of growth has led eventually to the collapse of our “house of cards”
but this also presents an opportunity to consider a more steady-
Legislation
Since 1997 over 4000 new offences have been added to our statute book in an avalanche of legislation. Clearly a lot of this is window dressing and has not dealt with the underlying problems of society. Indeed it has only added to the problems of overcrowding in our prisons.
As was the case with Israel of old when they abandoned God’s Law, our nation is reaping what we have sown and only in acknowledging God’s sovereign Lordship will our land be healed.
Why an Independent Candidate?
British politics stands at an important crossroads and the incoming Parliament will define our moral as well as our economic pathway for years to come.
Statistics show that it is possible that neither of the main two parties will secure a majority in this election. The indications, therefore, are that this could result in the first hung parliament for over three decades.
Such extraordinary circumstances mean that there is much less reason to vote for a particular party and presents voters with the opportunity of focussing on the needs and aspirations of their constituency.
Being involved in a hung parliament is a huge responsibility, the actions of any one MP have the potential to greatly influence the way our country is run. Although some party politicians may profess independence, their voting is too often dictated by their party line. In a hung parliament, the party whips will need to be even more vigorous, so party politicians will have little choice but to do as their leader says.
If I was elected as an Independent MP I would be able to use the principles of public office, considered evidence, experience, my Christian conviction and the needs of my constituents to guide my choices.
I would not ally myself with any party but rather work and vote in the interests of my constituents. This is a unique opportunity and I hope and pray that you will help to make it happen.
What can you do?
Remember that your freedom has come at a price and your vote is your privilege as well as your responsibility.
If you are concerned at the lack of vision on the current political landscape or if you are disillusioned with party politics – don’t give up and don’t give up on your vote.
British politics stands at an important crossroads and the incoming Parliament will define our moral as well as our economic pathway for years to come. You have your part to play by exercising responsible citizenship – your vote counts!
E-
