I am a true Yorkshire lad and proud to be so.

Full statement

I was born in Hipperholme and lived there until leaving for university at age 19. My Grandad established the famous Kendall’s Ice-cream factory almost 100 years ago and this family business was managed by my father, Kenneth, until his retirement in 1989. I have many friends & family still living in the Calder Valley and visit regularly. Calder Valley is a complete fit for me: home is where the heart is! Yorkshire roots and connections are so strong that I married my wife, Sandra, at Halifax registry office in 2019 and had the reception at The Shibden Mill Inn!

For some time, I have been frustrated and dismayed by the lack of conviction by our current political leaders who are full of empty promises which are completely devoid of any meaningful action. I firmly believe that Reform UK will not only give commitments that make absolute sense, from social and economic points of view, but will absolutely deliver on these promises.

I stand before you now as a passionate advocate for Reform UK, a party dedicated to revitalizing our nation with a clear focus on education, science, and common sense. These pillars are not just the foundation of our policy but are essential for the future prosperity of our country.

Education: Building a Brighter Future

Education is my chosen vocation and I have taught Chemistry up to A Level for over 30 years. As such it is a core tenet which I stand upon. Education is the cornerstone of any thriving society. It is through education that we empower our young people, equipping them with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed. Reform UK believes in an education system that is not only world-class but also accessible to all. We envision a future where our schools are not just places of learning but centres of excellence.

We propose comprehensive reforms that include increased funding for schools, a stronger emphasis on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) subjects, and vocational training that prepares students for the real world. We must ensure that our teachers are well-supported and adequately compensated, recognizing their vital role in shaping the minds of future generations.

By prioritizing education, we are investing in our most valuable resource: our children. They are the future scientists, engineers, entrepreneurs, and leaders who will drive our nation forward.

Science: Innovating for Tomorrow

Science and innovation are at the heart of progress. From medical breakthroughs to technological advancements, it is science that propels humanity forward. Reform UK is committed to fostering a culture of innovation and research. We advocate for increased funding for scientific research and development, ensuring that the UK remains at the forefront of global innovation.

We understand that tackling the challenges of the 21st century—whether it be climate change, public health, or technological disruption—requires a robust commitment to scientific inquiry and evidence-based policymaking. We will work to create an environment where scientists and researchers have the resources and freedom to explore new frontiers and make discoveries that benefit all of humanity.

Common Sense: Practical Solutions for Real Problems

At the core of our approach is a commitment to common sense. We believe in practical, straightforward solutions to the problems facing our country. Common sense means cutting through bureaucratic red tape, eliminating wasteful spending, and ensuring that government policies are grounded in reality and serve the best interests of the people.

We advocate for policies that are not just ideologically sound but also practically effective. Whether it's reforming our healthcare system to ensure it meets the needs of every citizen, creating a fair and sustainable immigration policy, or ensuring that our economy remains competitive on the global stage, we approach each issue with a clear-eyed focus on what works.

A Call to Action

The future of our nation depends on the choices we make today. Reform UK is committed to building a stronger, smarter, and fairer society. We believe in an education system that prepares our young people for the challenges of tomorrow, in scientific advancement that drives progress and innovation, and in common sense policies that address the real needs of our citizens.

Together, we can create a future where opportunity is available to all, where innovation flourishes, and where common sense prevails. I urge you to join us in this mission. Support Reform UK and be a part of the movement to transform our nation for the better.