The Green Party’s candidate for the new Reading Central Parliamentary constituency is local Councillor Dave McElroy (Redlands Ward).

Full statement

Dave is a scientist, a dad, and a sports lover. He has lived in Reading since 2017 and works for an international organisation dedicated to protecting land and farmers. As a hardworking councillor, Dave is a tireless campaigner for cleaner air, safer streets, and sticking up for the needs of local people. He is out knocking on residents’ doors all year round. You can expect more of the same hard work if Dave McElroy is elected as an MP.

In Reading Central, the Greens have the second largest group of councillors ahead of both the Conservatives and Lib Dems.

Speaking after being selected, Councillor Dave McElroy said: “We are all struggling with the cost-of-living crisis. Reading is blighted by congestion, air pollution and speeding, a lack of affordable housing, and a shortage of NHS dentists. I have been working on these issues as a councillor. If elected as an MP, I would be able to do this on a national level.

“The Green Party is now in second place on Reading Council ahead of both the Conservatives and Lib Dems. With more Green councillors, we have been able to make more of a difference on the council. With more MPs, we would be able to make more of a difference nationally.

“As your MP, I would also be able to act as a moral anchor on national issues, like taking the climate crisis seriously and condemning terror and genocide in all forms.

“Voters can expect me to stand up for people, planet and improving our quality of life. As a principle, I will always act on what I believe to be in the best interests of Reading residents, not the best interests of career politicians or the super-rich. With me, there will be no surprises, no excuses, just getting on with making the town fairer, greener and cleaner.

“The solution to the problems created by those in power cannot be more of the same. I urge the people of Reading to think about what matters to them, who has got us into this mess, what the Green Party has to offer, and be inspired to vote Green.”