Setting the agenda

The Independent Network meeting aims to establish a strategy to support independent candidates in the forthcoming general election.  A strict “no policy” rule will be enforced at the event on Friday September 25.  Instead those attending will be invited to discuss the operation of the Independent Network, based on its principles of having no policies and affiliates adhering to recommendations by the Committee on Standards in Public Life.

Points for discussion include:

• A briefing on the Independent Network’s work at the 2005 general election.

• A code of practice for independent candidates

• Identify challenges faced by the campaign, such as convincing floating voters to recognise themselves as independent.

• Use of the Independent Network brand.

• Negative campaigning.

• The presence of more than one independent standing in one constituency.

• Campaigning methods and the media.

• Methods to pool and share resources – what is already available?

• Use of social media and email.

• The Independent Network website

• Appoint or elect an executive committee to direct the group’s strategy and perform due diligence on its affiliates.

Anyone with any other ideas they wish to add to the agenda should contact secretariat@independentnetwork.org.uk  Please note the meeting MUST be finished by 5.30pm.