Henry Smith, Conservative Parliamentary Candidate for Crawley, has answered questions from the Crawley News, ahead of the General Election on 7th May 2015.
Has immigration been a predominantly good or bad thing for Crawley?
Crawley is a community made up of many different communities that come together for the common good – I’ve had the privilege of seeing that as previously Crawley’s MP and a Councillor. In a way most residents are migrants from elsewhere, whether that be new towners from south London or south Asia. I chose to make Crawley my home 21 years ago when I moved here for my wife to work at Crawley Hospital and for me to set up a business. We have to get the balance of immigration right and understandably in the last 15 years people have felt the flow too quick.
Other than the subject matters already mentioned what do you think are the issues which concern most Crawley residents and what are your personal views on them?
Both residential and town centre parking and street scene issues are something we have to address better in Crawley, also I’ve noticed the amount of litter recently across the Borough has got worse and that should be tackled. The Government recently announced £18 million in extra funding to improve Crawley’s roads which need upgrading too in many areas. I would welcome more community services for both local young people and senior citizens alike. Crawley developing further as a Dementia Friendly Town as recently designated by the Prime Minister is important too I think.
Would you always vote in the interests of what is best for Crawley even if you were going against party lines?
Yes, and I have a record of doing just that in the House of Commons already. An MP should serve their constituents foremost and put the country first above party politics.
What is your vision for Crawley in 10 years’ time?
Crawley’s motto is “I grow and I rejoice” I think that speaks of the optimism local people have about our town’s future. In a decade’s time I would like to see our record employment levels continue with diverse, quality jobs in the world leading companies that locate here. Apprenticeships have doubled in Crawley over the last five years and I was pleased to open the new University Centre at Central Sussex College but I want to see more opportunities for local young people. Regenerating our town centre, Queen’s Square and The Boulevard, is a project that needs achieving too.
Tell us something interesting or funny about yourself which most of our readers won't know?
Crawley News readers may already know this because there was an article about it last year but I’m a walking flag encyclopaedia – technically a vexillologist – maybe more a geek than interesting or funny, although my kids are amused and embarrassed in equal measure!
What do you think of your rivals for the position of Crawley's MP?
Whenever I speak with school children about my role I start by saying that the vast majority of people I come across in politics and public life are involved because they want the best for their community and country – it’s just we disagree on the best path to take in reaching that destination. That’s important to remember I think in the heat of debate. I do think that if seeking to be Crawley’s MP a candidate should live in the town and not be seeking election elsewhere on the same day!
What are the best and worst things about Crawley?
Crawley has a very strong sense of identity which is a positive. We are the economic powerhouse of West Sussex and whether it be diverse employment opportunities or entertainment we are a centre that has everything for residents and visitors alike. The neighbourhood principle on which Crawley is built provides local community too - shops, schools and halls - from some of the first areas to be built like West Green to the newest development now being constructed at Forge Wood. The worst thing about Crawley is not enough space and so parking on grass verges!
Why is your party the best one to lead the country?
The Conservatives have made the difficult but necessary and responsible decisions over the past five years in government to take the UK from the worst recession in our history to the greatest economic growth and employment levels in the industrialised world. We believe in freedom, commons sense, Great Britain and supporting people to achieve their best. Only a majority Conservative government will deliver an EU referendum that the other parties can’t or won’t.
Quick-fire questions
If you could invite 4 people dead or alive to a dinner party who would they be?
Sir Winston Churchill and Elizabeth I as great leaders from the past. And my daughter and son so they could learn from the others and because they make me laugh at dinner.
Favourite animal?
I love dogs, such character and loyalty and I support the fantastic work of Guide Dogs too. My kids had some cute gerbils a while back though!
Which football team do you support?
Crawley Town FC of course – it’s the only time I shout “Come on you Reds!”
Guilty pleasure (i.e. a song/TV programme/celebrity you admire)
A few pints of Harvey’s Sussex Best Bitter.
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