From the lack of NHS services to drastic cuts in local schools' budgets, the St Ives constituency has been poorly served by this government and the previous Lib/Dem Conservative coalition.

Full statement

As a doctor in general practice every day I see the consequences of fourteen years of government failure and incompetence.

Families have been made poorer by increases in interest rates and the cost-of-living crisis, caused by the government's mismanagement of the economy. Older people especially, worry about the state of NHS ser-vices, such as the closure of the pharmacy service at the Stennack Surgery in St Ives. 

For many young people their only hope of buying or renting a decent home is to move up country away from family and friends. The housing crisis is especially acute in this constituency. Average wages are £127 per week lower than the rest of the country while average house prices are 35% higher. In some holiday hotspots many locals are priced out of the market by second homeowners who let their properties while paying nothing to support local services. 

Local schools have suffered some devastating cuts. Humphry Davy School, a secondary school in Pen-zance, has had close to £600,000 slashed from its budget over the last fourteen years. A cut equivalent to £715 per pupil. Nansloe Academy, a primary school in Helston, has lost around £1500 per pupil in the same period. 

Over successive elections Labour has been increasing its vote in Cornwall as local people recognise the Conservatives and Liberal Democrats have failed them. This election we are offering the change that Cornwall and this constituency needs. As someone who has devoted their professional life to serving the public, I'd hope you will allow me the honour of serving you by voting Labour on 4th July. 

My background 

I was born into an ordinary working-class family who encouraged me to qualify as a doctor. 

After working for fifteen years in medicine I now want to be a voice in parliament for the many people in this constituency who have been failed by successive governments. 

During my studies I joined the Navy, where / experienced a transformative and fulfilling period of service.More recently, I volunteered to accompany four veterans and their families to Normandy, providing them with medical and emotional support, while paying tribute to their bravery and sacrifices on the battlefield.If elected I'll stand up for our Armed Forces Communities in this constituency, ensuring they get the support they deserve.