I am Raj Singh and I'm honoured to run as Reading Central’s candidate to be your next Conservative Member of Parliament.

Full statement

I was born prematurely in a small village in India, with the doctors giving me a week to live. I defied those odds. My resilience and refusal to give up define my conservative spirit. I will be on your side, fighting for you with the same spirit.

Reading is my home. I live, rest and work here together with my wife and six-year-old son. I hold a Master’s degree in Business and IT, and work in cyber security. I’m at the frontline of protecting our country’s businesses from Russian and Chinese cyber-attacks. I am what I am because of the fantastic opportunities Britain has given me.

I know that Reading’s residents are disillusioned with politics and with politicians, and are looking for change. As your MP, I will prioritise constituency issues over Westminster politics. You deserve a parliamentarian who will wholeheartedly champion your cause, no matter how controversial the issue.

I was first elected as a Reading Borough councillor in 2018 and have re-stood successfully ever since. My track record as a local councillor in Reading reflects my dedication to serving our community. I initiated a petition to reinstate 30 minutes of free parking in Tilehurst, which attracted 4,000 signatures. I introduced a motion to improve road safety for elderly and young families. I successfully addressed unauthorised encampments on multiple occasions. I spearheaded a petition with over 1,000 signatures to preserve our green spaces from excessive development. During the recent floods, I coordinated welfare checks for residents in collaboration with the council and emergency services.

These actions demonstrate my ability to advocate persuasively and get things done for residents.

I have consistently held the Labour-run council accountable for their anti-motorist policies and advocated for fair treatment and better infrastructure for all road users.

At the doorstep, residents have told me their priorities for our town. Their priorities are my priorities which include: 1)Energising our local economy, championing our businesses, and revitalising the town centre. 2)Homes fit for people’s needs. 3)More policing, tougher sentences, safer streets. 4)Improving our local health and social care. 5)Holding the Labour-run Reading Borough Council accountable for the poor condition of roads, pavements and unreliable waste collection. 6)Tackling flooding and sewage issues.

I’ll be a strong voice for your concerns here and on the national stage, prioritising people over politics.

Give me your support through the election campaign as well as on 4 July so that together, we can make a positive change for Reading.

Yours sincerely

Raj Singh Conservative Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Reading Central constituency