BYGOTT-WEBB; Hugh B. J.

Manifesto to follow...

My name is Hugh Bygott-Webb and I am standing as a candidate for Deputy in the forthcoming States election on 18 April. I am asking for your support because I want to serve the people of Guernsey and the town of St Peter Port.

I believe that over the next four years the Bailiwick is going to face a number of challenges brought about by the continuing financial crisis and consequent threats to our identity, economy and political system. The outgoing States of Deliberation have not provided enough leadership. I believe that I can supply fresh thinking and ideas backed by a varied experience of a number of different relevant walks of life.

The electorate has a right to understand where their representatives are coming from: so I have listed 13 (unlucky for some) bullet points on issues I think of importance, a brief introduction to me and points that reflect my political philosophy.

• Independence as a jurisdiction not isolation as a State – maintaining and improving our relationship with the UK and the EU – our business partners.
  
• Firm declaration maintaining the distinction between Open and Local Market – review the criteria for licensing.
  
• Regeneration of Town. The pedestrianisation of the Market Square has been a mistake – bring back access, limited pick-up and disability parking.
  
• Those who take money out of the public pot – Politicians, Civil Servants, Regulators are the servants of those who put money in.
  
• Education is about preparing a child for the World – not about passing tests– we need a review of the goals and a proper plan for Education.
  
• Housing – improving the housing stock for locals and “guest workers” alike.
  
• Improve our Democracy – Collective responsibility for the Executive, pass Guernsey laws for Guernsey people. Introduce a select committee system for the States.
  
• Stop the endless waste of money on consultants and so called experts. We have a fantastic pool of unused expertise here on the island.
  
• Health – provide the best service for a population of 70,000 – buy in specialties.
  
• Environment – St Peter Port is a world class town of beauty. The new urban plan must keep it so while allowing the town to develop.
  
• Sewage and Waste Disposal – we must choose the safe and sensible options as well as the environmentally friendly ones.
  
• Support the Finance industry against heavy handed regulation but Regenerate our Traditional Industries of Tourism, Fishing and Horticulture.
  
• Nip the dependency culture in the bud. Give islanders back their dignity. The receipt of benefit must come with giving something back to the community.
  

hbw@yltd.co.uk

If I was an Islander ( Oh I wish ) I would be very attracted to this manifesto.

I am taking note of how many of these would be deputies actually attend the parish meetings as this is where they would hear about any problems