This in from Phil Jordan on behaf of Ian Stephens. Ed
Cllr Ian Stephens, the former Leader of the Isle of Wight Council announces the official launch of his campaign to seek election as Member of Parliament for the Isle of Wight at the general election to be held on 7th May 2015.
Having stepped down as Leader of the Council in January 2015, Ian decided that he wishes to be able to spend all of his time and efforts in seeking election and has committed to making certain the residents of this Island will have the voice they deserve in Westminster.
Ian retains his Chairmanship of a valuable LGA board, that of Culture, Tourism, and Sport and through which he has much involvement with Government Ministers and access to influential Members within Government.
Putting the Island and its people first
Speaking ahead of his launch, Ian Stephens said,
“I am very much looking forward to contesting the Island MP seat and intend to bring a fresh, non political approach based upon issues and matters that are important to Islanders, that impact our Island and affect our residents and businesses alike and make certain that the unique and special case for the Island will be put forcefully in the future.
“I have already been speaking and influencing Members in Westminster and have achieved important funding for the Island through the SLEP as well as being central to us achieving Area Assisted Status for a large part of the Island.
“We can do better and I am committed and determined to put this Island first and foremost, above all party politics, to get our voice heard above the crowd.
“Being born an Islander, spending all of my life as an Islander and cutting my teeth over the past 15 years as a Councillor and Leader in local government on this Island I am now ready and experienced to take on the role as the MP for this Island…..putting the Island and its people first.”
Support from Islanders and colleagues
Since announcing his intention to stand for Parliament, Ian has received widespread support from a wide cross section of both residents and businesses whom have all pledged their support and wished him well.
The current members of the Isle of Wight Council administration have also lent their full support to his campaign.
Where and when
The launch takes place on Monday 23rd February 2015 at 4.30pm at the Independent campaign HQ, 12 Cross Street, Ryde, PO33 2AD (corner of Cross Street/George Street)
Image: © Isle of Wight Council
