This general election will define our times, a Brexit for the few is coming. Money saved will be handed out as tax cuts to the super-rich and their corporations. New trade deals with the US and elsewhere will drive down our working conditions, and environmental and food standards.  The lives of the rich will not suffer. Over 2.4 million young people are missing from the UK’s electoral register. Barely 40 per cent of 18 to 24-year olds turn out to vote. The Conservatives are more than happy with this state of affairs. Apathy and resignation will secure them seats on election day. 

The Tories have been targeting the poorest students most with cuts and fee increases in line with their brutal economic agenda. A recent poll showed 44 per cent of 18-24 year olds intend to vote Labour compared to 21 per cent who would vote Conservative. There is only one way we can influence who gets hit hardest over the next five years and that is ensuring young people vote.We know 18-24 year olds are the age group least likely to vote on polling day but most likely to vote Labour if they do.

These statistics allow politicians to ignore young people. They will slash budgets for students and young workers whilst increasing funds for the over-65s in wealthy areas. This is because over-65s are more likely to vote (and vote Tory) on election day.

You can register to vote in five quick minutes online. Its the most important thing you will do today.

It's great to see so many South West County Council candidates all gathered together in one place. Thank you to South West Region for organising this training day in Taunton. It was an excellent opportunity for the candidates to get together, make new contacts and friends and touch base with some old ones too.  Christina King standing in Dawlish, Jackie Jackson standing in Newton Abbot South and Lillian Chasteau standing in Teignmouth, all from Newton Abbot Constituency attended.

From their report on the day it sounds as if they picked up some really good ideas.

The days activities included:

• understanding the issues affecting communities
• building relationships with stakeholders
• identifying and running campaigns of common interest with community groups
• telling the truth and building confidence
• mobilising campaigns

Ways of mapping, engaging and planning where explored as well as how to present an effective message, types of Campaign actions, the election itself and how to write pledges and promote them. Sounds like an informative and full day. Thank you Taunton for hosting the event.