Standing as an MP

[Salas]

Hi,

I am considering standing as an independant in the next local elections. I have never done any think like this before and was wondering if any of you have any advise on the ins and outs of standing.

Thanks.

[Salas]

Sorry not MP but for the local council.

[WendyS]

Good for you ! It's great that you're sufficiently interested in your local community to want to stand up and be counted. One thing might surprise you though. . If elected, you may find that contrary to your current thoughts, you might be barred from taking part in specific debates because "You have to declare an interest", (either because you're a local resident or might benefit in some other way from the outcome of decisions made on particular issues). This can be hugely restricting. Sometimes you can make more impact by standing on the edge of the pond and throwing bricks in to make a ripple, without the restraints of political whips, although if you're an Independent, this wouldn't affect you quite so much. If you are wondering whether to go ahead, spend the time between now and the next local elections in getting involved in community affairs, raising your profile by campaigning on issues and getting your face and name known by writing to the press and cultivating your local press reporters. At election time you won't have the benefit of a political party organisation behind you and will be a One Man Band, so you will have to rely on any track record you have built up to act in your favour. Also, if you're not confident at Public Speaking, now is the time to go to some classes and refine your skills. If campaigning and certainly if elected, you will need them.. Please don't give up on this. We really need people like you to improve local democracy.

[Salas]

Many thanks