In his regular blog for Caerphilly Observer, Caerphilly Council leader Lindsay Whittle gives his take on recent news.
General Election
I thought Observer readers would be interested in finding out what issues the public have brought up most with me while I’ve been out canvassing for the general election.
I’m getting around 100 emails every day, which shows how the internet has changed the world we live in, while many people still raise their concerns in the traditional way – on the doorstep.
The issues which people want to talk about are pensions, the number of low paid jobs and what may surprise some readers – animal welfare. In addition, people are still fuming over the expenses scandal involving MPs, which has led to Labour MPs in the South Wales Valleys, such as our own MP Wayne David having to repay thousands of pounds to the public purse.
We’re working very hard to show people that not all politicians are the same – not all are after all the money they can pocket. I’ve served this area for decades and for me public service has always been a privilege.
Campaigning can be hard going but I like nothing better than chatting to people in Caerphilly – the area where I was born and bred and I’ve also had tremendous support from party members and supporters which I’m really grateful for.
The response I’ve had has been good but some people have told me they are not going to vote because they are so disillusioned with the political classes – and perhaps who can blame them.
But as I mentioned earlier we’re not all the same and certainly there is the opportunity to let Westminster know what they think of them by voting positively for Plaid Cymru, who are the only party that will speak up exclusively for Wales despite the decision of the broadcasters to exclude us from the leaders’ debate.
I hope people will ignore the spin and support candidates with a good record of public service.
Lindsay Whittle,
Plaid Cymru leader of Caerphilly Council