Following the OnTheWight scoop published this morning, revealing former council leader Ian Stephens is to stand as candiate in the 2015 General Election, a press release has been issued. Ed
Ian Stephens has today announced that he is to stand as the Independent candidate for the Isle of Wight constituency in the forthcoming General Election.
Ian stood down as Leader of the Isle of Wight Council at the Full Council meeting on Wednesday 21st January in order to stand for Parliament. In his two years as Leader Ian has brought about significant changes at the local authority. He has facilitated the Island becoming an active member of the Solent Local Economic Partnership, the award of Assisted Area Status, and the turning around of Childrens Social Services and Education. Ian has also brought forward business and inward investment, a valuable memorandum of understanding with the Chamber of commerce and instituted a renewal of the accord with the Federation of Small Businesses.
In recognition of his work Ian was invited to become Chairman of the LGA Culture, Tourism and Sport Committee last year.
In announcing his intention to stand for Parliament Ian Stephens said:
“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time as Council Leader and, having brought the Council into a much better place than it was in two years ago, I feel the time has come for me to step aside as Leader, not only to allow a new Leader to take forward the next stage of this work and build upon our significant achievements to date but also to take the opportunity to stand as a candidate to represent the Island in Parliament as our elected MP.
“I have already undertaken a great deal of work to develop economic opportunities for the Isle of Wight much of which has involved me working with many national agencies and holding meetings with Ministers and officials at all levels of Government and I feel that I can now best serve the Island by using this experience and the knowledge I have attained to further the development of opportunities for the Isle of Wight by promoting its unique, yet special, case.
“It will also be a great asset to the Isle of Wight to have an MP who can work closely with the Council Administration to present a united front in fighting for the interests and benefits of the Island and all of its residents and businesses.”
Ian will remain as a member of the Isle of Wight Council Executive during his campaign and will also retain his LGA post.
He will shortly announce a press conference to formally launch his campaign.
Image: © BBC
