The second public hustings for the Surrey Heath Parliamentary constituency took place this evening (Wednesday 26th June) at Chobham Rugby Football Club with a packed out hall.
Of the six candidates standing, only three showed up, Ed McGuinness for Surrey Heath Conservatives, Al Pinkerton for the Lib Dems, and Sam Goggin for Reform UK. As was noted by a local independent Borough Councillor, it led "to the impression that [the] Labour candidate here is very much a paper candidate."
The hustings were hosted by a non-partisan chairman, who asked a series of questions to the candidates before opening the floor to the audience.
A question was asked by Independent Borough Councillor Victoria Wheeler to the candidates on how they would balance the need for affordable housing within the area whilst protecting the greenbelt, of which 44.06% of the land in Surrey Heath Borough is under, and the plans they had around the provision of gypsy, traveller and Romany pitch sites. The Leader of the Council, Lib Dem Shaun Macdonald, was sat in the audience and ungraciously remonstrated that the Alms Houses proposed for West End, which had been blocked by the Lib Dems, were a Council matter and not relevant for the hustings.
Commenting, Cllr Wheeler said:
"I must admit, I was irritated by Al’s claims that he led the Covid response, as we all know that was certainly not the case in Windlesham and Chobham or the other villages.
"It was disappointing to see this being politicised, as the villages certainly didn’t get involved with Surrey Heath Prepared, and actually having checked the WhatsApp group for Surrey Heath prepared I could only find one message on there from Al - maybe he was very busy in the background, (experience which is certainly something that would be advantageous for the next four years for either candidate).
"I guess the decision that each of us needs to make is which one do we feel would fight for us from the back benches. (Certainly a position that I can associate with!). Overall, there was enough air in the room to fly a balloon to France, and a huge thanks should be given to Chobham rugby club for hosting us so well."
Commenting, Ed said:
"It was fantastic to attend and speak at the Chobham Rugby Football Club Hustings tonight. Was great to debate policy in a kind, calm and respectful way - with a little bit of fun here and there!
"Thanks to all those who came along and to all the organisers!"
Pictured, the hustings at Chobham Rugby Football Club
