Tatton candidate answers to hustings
How does your party seek to improve the quality of education within the state sector?
Greens believe that education is a fundamental right that should be available to everyone, regardless of their background or age. They advocate for a fully inclusive education system that provides adequate support for children with special educational needs and ensures that every child receives a free school meal. Additionally, Green MPs aim to restore grants and eliminate tuition fees for higher education students. They also prioritise increasing school funding, with a proposed £8bn investment that includes a pay uplift for teachers. Safety is another key concern, with a commitment to invest £2.5bn annually to address the RAAC concrete scandal and ensure that school buildings are well-maintained and suitable for children. The provision of free school breakfast clubs for primary school pupils would also be protected. Furthermore, Greens propose providing access to qualified counsellors for children and students in all state-funded schools and colleges. Recognising the changing nature of work, Greens emphasise the importance of accessible and well-designed education and training that supports lifelong learning. They propose a £3bn increase in funding for sixth-form education and a £12bn investment in skills and lifelong learning for further education.
If given the opportunity to serve in any government department or on any Parliamentary committee, which would you serve in/on, and why?
I have been passionate about climate science and the environment for many years. In 2019, I presented information to the leaders of Cheshire East Council before the launch of their environmental strategy. As a Parish Councillor, I lead our climate and environment working group in High Legh. Additionally, I am part of the National Green Party Climate Emergency Policy Working Group, collaborating with scientists and experts to shape our policies and manifesto for the upcoming election. It’s clear to me that an organisation with separate environment and economic strategies is missing the mark – a truly sustainable economic strategy is the key, as the two are fully compatible.
Why should someone looking to vote for a left-wing party choose the Greens over Labour?
Unfortunately, Labour has significantly reduced their Green Transition pledges, going from 28bn per year to 8.2 bn over 5 years, showing a lack of commitment and prioritisation. The Greens, on the other hand, plan to impose a carbon tax on high emitters like Gas and Oil, aiming to accelerate the transition to a greener economy and fund public services. Labour’s decision to welcome individuals like Natalie Elphicke into the party raises concerns about the alignment of values within the party. Furthermore, Labour’s stance on deterring asylum seekers for political gain reflects a prioritisation of votes over humanitarian values. Voting for the Greens is not a wasted vote, as it supports funding for elected MPs to carry out their duties and promote values in parliament.
What would you say to voters who believe that the Green Party is a single-issue party with few major policy proposals on issues voters most care about or are to voters who are unaware of such proposals?
I would ask voters to read our manifesto, it covers a wide range of topics such as health, social care, housing, energy, greener economy, working conditions, universal basic income, public finance, nature act, animal protection, food and farming, education, greener transport, democracy, foreign policy, crime and policing and overseas aid.
What are the top policy priorities your party has to offer for young voters?
With the impending climate crisis, Green policies are becoming increasingly logical. The Green Party’s agenda goes beyond just addressing climate change; it also advocates for social justice. Our aim is to establish a universal minimum wage of £15 per hour, applicable to all individuals regardless of age. To alleviate the burden on small businesses, we will raise the Employment Allowance to £10,000. Additionally, we will reinstate the Education Maintenance Allowance to provide financial support for young individuals pursuing further education after the age of 16. Furthermore, we believe in granting 16 and 17-year-olds the right to vote and run for political positions.