York Labour officially kick-started our election campaign this weekend with a joint rally for our candidates in York Central and Outer. Around 100 local members and activists turned out in Exhibition Square, decked out in red with our arresting NHS banner as the focal point. Labour supporters were arriving throughout the morning to hear rousing speeches from both candidates, introduced by Labour’s group leader in council, Danny Myers.
In York Central, Rachael Maskell is standing for re-election as MP, while in York Outer, current Heworth councillor Anna Perrett is hoping to unseat the incumbent Julian Sturdy with a campaign highlighting how seldom the conservative MP is even seen in his constituency let alone how little work he does on their behalf.
Anna said: “People want an MP who is there for them and willing to speak up in Westminster and challenge the Government when they get it wrong. They want someone who cares, someone who listens and more importantly someone who can make life fairer. I can do this.
“As a charity worker, small business owner and a local councillor I have seen the pain caused by a Tory Government and a Lib Dem-led council. Neither of which are putting the people first. Change needs to happen now, and only Labour can do this.”
Labour are campaigning in York, and across the country, on policies including ending privatisation in the NHS, building more affordable and council housing, and tackling climate change and creating jobs with our Green New Deal. We are also promising to give the public a final say on any Brexit deal.
Rachael said: “I have thoroughly loved working with the people in York over the last four years. I have always put York first, talking to people, finding out what they think and speaking up for them in Westminster at every opportunity.We are in the midst of a national crisis after a decade of Tory and Tory/Lib Dem Governments; it is now time for real change.
“We will build the homes that people can afford to live in, invest in the jobs that will provide good wages and opportunities and we will save our NHS from cuts and privatisation. Labour’s Green New Deal, integrated with a radical transport policy will be Labour’s response to the climate crisis. This is why I am eager to win this election; so we can fix Britain and sort Brexit with a public vote within six months and get on with the things that matter to people across our city.”
Following the launch, activists headed out into the city for doorknocking sessions and street stalls, to spread the message of Labour’s election promises. Campaigning events will continue right up to polling day, and there are plenty of activities for everyone to get involved, including phone banking and leaflet delivery for those not confident on the doorstep.