I live in Norwich with my wife, Rosalind, and I care passionately about getting the best deal for our community. It would be a great honour to represent Norwich in parliament.
As MP, I will champion improvements to Norwich’s transport system: affordable and reliable bus services; improvements to the Norwich-London train service; and a better environment for cyclists and pedestrians. I want 20mph limits in all residential areas and a city-wide cycle hire scheme as many European cities successfully operate.
As a former Norfolk high school teacher, education is an important issue for me. Children in Norfolk schools get less funding than the national average, and cutbacks threaten school budgets. I’m appalled by the prospect of local children being left behind by cuts. I support more money for schools as a top priority. I oppose university tuition fees.
Jobs and the local economy is an ongoing concern. Local employers have struggled to get access to bank loans. I will work alongside parliamentary colleagues including Vince Cable to force banks to lend more, which will help to secure jobs. I will promote job creation schemes including new ‘green jobs’ to help our economy switch to a low-carbon future. I want more support for young people, who’ve been hit particularly hard by the recession.
There’s a lot of cynicism about politicians right now. I pledge to be a full time MP for you. I will not take on extra jobs on top of an MPs salary after this election.
A couple of years ago, I fought hard alongside local residents against post office closures in Norwich. We managed to save Vauxhall Street and New Costessey branches. When communities and campaigners work together, it is possible to make a real difference. This will be a guiding principle to my work as your MP.
Simon Wright, Liberal Democrat Prospective Parliamentary Candidate, Norwich South.
