INTERVIEW WITH SWANSEA EAST CONSERVATIVE CANDIDATE DENISE HOWARD
Why should the people of Swansea East vote for you?
Because mine is the only party that can get Brexit done. Labour want more dither and delay. The Liberal Democrats and Plaid are Brexit blockers and the Brexit Party simply don’t have the numbers to make it happen. We must get Brexit done so we can finally start focusing on the things that really matter, like jobs, health, education and law and order. If I was elected, I would be a strong voice for the people of Swansea East – listening to their concerns and then ACTING upon them.
For anybody who does not follow politics much, can you please give a bit of background on yourself.
My home is in Swansea. I am married and have a daughter. I am a journalist by trade – having worked in both local and national news. I now work as a press officer, regularly travelling around the whole of Wales. I grew up in a Yorkshire pit village and love a good chat. I also love walking (especially with my dogs) and anything outdoors.
What would your main aims be if you get elected for Swansea East?
To stand up for everybody in the constituency – whether they voted Conservative or not. To make myself accessible to all residents and do my best for them. My priorities would include; attracting new investment into the area to create more jobs. I would also be keen to work with community groups, and the police, to make our streets safer. Helping to create more opportunities for our young people would be a priority – as would holding the Welsh Labour Government to account for failings in our devolved health and education system.
What is your position on Brexit?
Just like over 60 per cent of voters in Swansea East – I voted to leave. The result of the 2016 referendum must be honoured. We need to take back control of our laws, our borders, our future.That said, there are also people in the constituency who voted to remain. I respect their view and take their concerns seriously.
How is the mood talking to people on the doorstep and what is coming up most?
People are fed up of politicians going around in circles. They want an end to political paralysis. They also want to feel that they are being listened to – and that their opinions and decisions count.
Is there a lot of smoke and mirrors and not much access to good honest politics?
Access to good, honest politics is essential to keep people engaged and give them the opportunity to make their views known. Recently, I fear, politics has become more aggressive – and I sincerely hope that changes. We need more young people, and people from across all communities, to take an interest in politics – and it is essential that they are able to do so without fear.
Do you think the BBC is impartial and on a what are your feelings on John Bercow?
Wouldn’t like to say on these two.Which politician would you least like to get stuck in a lift with?
Tony Blair!
What politician/person most inspired you to get in to politics?
Emmeline Pankhurst, the leader of the Suffragettes. I remember learning about her in school and admiring her courage and dedication in a time that was very different to our own. She, and women like her, went above and beyond to get votes for women.
