Esther Rantzen Joins Forces With Independents

Martin Bell and Esther Rantzen joined independent politicians from across the country on 25th September to discuss how best to serve the interests of independent candidates in the run-up to the next general election. The meeting was arranged by the Independent Network (IN) to decide upon a strategy for the coming 12 months.

Around thirty supporters, councillors and prospective candidates attended, coming from across the UK. The meeting covered a wide agenda including: establishing a code of practice for independent candidates; identifying ways to convince the electorate to identify as independent; the use of the IN brand; how to share materials and advice among candidates; and establishing networks on social media such as Facebook for supporters to exchange practical advice and campaign materials. 

Martin Bell presented a statement of eight principles, now dubbed the Bell Principles, for independent candidates. The Bell Principles are based on the Seven Principles of Public Life by Lord Nolan - selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership. Candidates signing up to the Bell Principles pledge to be answerable only to their constituents, not to any party or pressure group; and that their expenses be modest and transparent. All members of the Independent Network must abide by these principles if they wish to receive the support of the Independent Network.

The meeting also saw the election, by unanimous vote, of an executive committee to guide the Independent Network’s strategy and to perform due diligence on the candidates to be endorsed.

The Bell Principles, which will be under constant review to ensure the best possible guidelines for representatives, will be made publicly available after approval of the edits and the minutes of the meeting by the IN's executive committee. Independent candidates will be encouraged to publish them on their own websites.