To the residents of Old Bexley and Sidcup,
Whatever they tell you about the likely outcome of this by-election, you should vote for what you believe in.
Voting Green is a clear signal to our government that our concerns are your concerns. It tells those in power what is important to you, your family and your community.
Like me, many want a government that not only does something about climate change, but rather leads the counter attack against the climate crisis – with urgent action and full commitment.
It is well past the time for Boris Johnson’s blustery rhetoric that changes with the wind. It is now the time for steady resolve, ambitious goals and transformative policy.
Greens advocate for the action that is necessary, rather than the actions that are easy.
This Conservative government does not deserve your vote. We cannot stand by and allow the corruption to continue. Like the Green Party, ordinary people feel that a change to how politics is conducted is essential. Democracy should be a method of government that benefits our communities, not simply an opportunity for Conservatives to make an easy fortune from side interests.
As a Green, I will never take money from lobbyists.
We also have the opportunity to send a signal to the council. Residents want parks protected from a Conservative council that readily builds private homes on public open space. They want competence and proper engagement from the council in running local services, while the Conservatives have shown incompetence and lack of concern for local residents when bins went uncollected for several weeks this autumn.
As a local resident, I pressure the council to improve its performance.
With a strong Green showing at the ballot box, they will feel that pressure all the more keenly.
James Brokenshire was an honourable public servant and his passing at such a young age is deeply tragic. Nevertheless, to rubber stamp his successor without considering the signal it will send to this government would be a mistake.
We desperately need change. Old Bexley & Sidcup needs change and the country needs it. And change will only come from showing the incumbents that you won’t support them unconditionally.
I urge you to vote your conscience, for yourself, your family, your community and your future – by voting Green. I will be proud to represent you.
Yours faithfully,
– Jonathan Rooks