When John (Rye News reporter John Minter - ed.) said recently that he didn’t know how much more politics readers could take, I knew what he meant. In the wake of everything that’s happened in recent years, we’re all pretty sick of it, and alas, we’re becoming pretty cynical too. Ironically, that’s one of the reasons I find myself writing this little prospectus for Rye News - because I’m tired of the way things are: I’m tired of tribalism, I'm tired of antagonism, and I'm tired of where 'pendulum politics' has led us nationally.
But, what’s that got to do with Rye and Winchelsea? Well, from my perspective, we have far more reason to cooperate than to contend. What I would like to see nationally, we can put into practice locally. As I’ve said many times on these pages, 'rosette politics' only serves parties, it doesn’t serve you and me. Similarly, Town and Parish versus District is an equally pointless turf war. That doesn’t mean Rye and Winchelsea shouldn’t fight their corners vociferously in Bexhill - quite the opposite.
However, I think that collaborative, communicative, consensus politics more effectively serves the community and makes long term strategy possible. This is what is represented by the Rother Alliance, a progressive coalition, that has already made an impact locally – the creation of Bexhill Town Council enables Rother to shift focus to rural areas; responsibilities are being devolved to town and parish councils; there's greater transparency due to the broadcasting of committees; planning has been overhauled; a Climate Emergency has been declared, and despite colossal financial pressures, the Alliance has maintained sound finances.
In the same pragmatic spirit of the Rother Alliance, I will work with anyone who will put the people of Rye and Winchelsea first. That's why I'm standing as a Lib Dem and defending Cllr. Norton's seat. I'll spare you any more of the political waffle of which we're all so tired, and just offer this: if you would care to vote for me on May 4, I’ll listen, I’ll communicate, and I’ll do my utmost as a District Councillor to work with the Town and Parish Councils, residents, voluntary and business groups, to sort out the problems of which we are all painfully aware.
There’s an enormous amount for us to do, but our ancient towns are bursting with energy, experience, creativity, intellect and passion, and I know we can do great things if we cooperate. Keep an eye open for my leaflets, and email me if there’s any issue you’d like to raise. Equally, if you spot me out and about, feel free to stop me, as I always enjoy a chat.
I’d be very grateful for your vote on May 4, but remember, whomever you support, unless you vote by post, you’ll be turned away at the polling station without ID.
I think real change starts on our doorsteps, so please participate in local democracy, and let's build better politics.
Guy Harris
Liberal Democrat district council candidate for Rye and Winchelsea.
