Mike Freer has been a truly exceptional MP for Finchley and Golders Green. His is a powerful legacy in this area – and his example is one I strive to emulate.
Mike is standing down – after being on the receiving end of several credible death threats, having been targeted by Sir David Amess’s killer, and after our Association office on Ballards Lane was set on fire.
With these facts before me, I knew that I couldn’t stand idly by. The Finchley and Golders Green Association might not select me, but I could at least try. I knew that I would forever regret it if I missed this opportunity to contribute to public service when the call came. So, I put myself forward – and I’m so proud and honoured that the Association chose me to be the candidate for Finchley and Golders Green. It is a great responsibility for me and one that I relish.
In light of the context I have described, I would like to say something about the forthcoming election. My opponents – all, by dint of the events I have described, selected well before me – are palpably decent people who believe as we do that change in society comes through the ballot box. That our democracy is served in the battle of ideas, not by creeping up in the dead of night and leaving a building in flames.
We are going to have a great debate in Finchley and Golders Green. We are going to argue robustly. But in the end, it will have been made clear that that which unites those in such debates is far stronger than what divides us – for the great divide is between all of us who believe in and stand up for democracy and those who think that violence is the right means to a political end.
By engaging in this debate with sincerity and civility, my opponents and I will collectively honour our democratic tradition and leave our community better rather than worse for having had that debate, whoever may prevail.
My priorities for the area are:
Safety on our streets: I will work to address local safety concerns, advocating for our fair share of funding from the Mayor for policing, focusing on reducing knife crime and antisocial behaviour. I will take robust action to combat the unacceptable rise in antisemitism that has plagued our country and our city since October. It is intolerable that valued members of our community are questioning their places in our society due to the actions of a loud minority.
Building family homes: People need places to live, and it is vital that housing developments enhance the local area. This means thoroughly considering their impact on infrastructure and community services. Brent Cross Town is an outstanding example of how thoughtful planning can lead to successful, sustainable developments.
Supporting local businesses: Local businesses are the lifeblood of our communities, and I will strongly advocate for enhanced measures to support them. I am committed to ensuring they receive the necessary assistance to thrive, including access to financial support, streamlined regulations and initiatives that encourage local shopping and investment.
Standing up for you: Residents deserve to have their voices heard on the issues that matter most to them. I will actively listen and work to raise your concerns with the relevant person or authority. It is only right that your views help shape the decisions that affect our community.
None of us are blind to the current political reality. These are challenging times for my Party. But this election will be fought on the ground, on local issues. Come what may, in the General Election, if I am elected to be the new MP for Finchley and Golders Green, I will be a strong voice for this area in parliament.
