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Charter88 puts democracy on trial in
key London marginals
15th May 2001
Charter88 announced the launch of its
Unlocking Democracy campaign in London today. Voters in key marginals
around the Capital will be giving the chance to quiz their candidates
on questions at the heart of this election:
Do you think it's worth voting? Are you concerned about sleaze
in public life? Do you think the country is getting less democratic?
Do you control the politicians or do they control you?
The first of these meetings will be held in Battersea on 17th
May 2001. Martin Linton, the successful Labour candidate in 1997
won with a majority of only 5,360.
Neil Thompson, organiser of the Unlocking Democracy meeting in
Battersea, said:
"This is a vital event in a pivotal constituency. On Thursday
the voters of Battersea will have the chance to see what the candidates
really think about the way we are governed. They will be able to
tell whether they are prepared to make the changes that will put
the people back into politics."
Other key meetings include:
ENFIELD SOUTHGATE: the site of Michael Portillo’s memorable
defeat in 1997. The public will have the chance to quiz his usurper,
Stephen Twigg, about his tightly contested seat. In 1997, he won
by just 3.1 per cent, making it one of the most watched constituencies
of this and the last general election.
PUTNEY: the scene of the raucous dismissal of David Mellor
in 1997 by Labour's Tony Colman. This key marginal is being targeted
by the Conservatives where they are aiming to turn over a slim 2,976
majority.
WIMBLEDON: in of Labour's most unlikely wins in 1997, Roger
Casale will be defending a majority of 2,990. This constituency
may well prove to be the "Basildon of 2001".
HORNSEY AND WOOD GREEN: Will Hutton, chief executive of
the Industrial Society and ex-editor of The Observer, will
be chairing the Unlocking Democracy meeting. Candidates include
Barbara Roche, controversial Minister of State for the Home Office.
Commenting on the launch of the London meetings, Pam Giddy, Director
of Charter88 said:
"Voter turnout in this election is expected to be at its lowest
since the war and public trust in politicians is at an all-time
low. In this election democracy itself is on trial. Unlocking Democracy
meetings will give people in key London constituencies a chance
to make it an election issue as well."
For more information about the meetings, to arrange for a crew
to attend or to interview any of the organisers contact:
Press & Campaigns Officer: 020 8880 6088 press@charter88.org.uk
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