Independent Network Hits The Airwaves

The Independent Network (IN) was invited onto BBC Radio 5Live this month to take part in a discussion on the expenses scandal and the rise of independent politicians.

Brian Ahearne, the Independent Network’s interim face for radio, joined former independent MP Martin Bell on the Victoria Derbyshire show to promote the value of independents to democracy, and to field questions from the public.

When asked how the Independent Network could help prospective candidates, Ahearne pointed out that there is a vast amount of expertise available to prospective candidates from former and current independents who have run their own campaigns. The Independent Network is not a political party, he explained; instead, it’s about independents supporting each other.

“This campaign is going to be won on the ground,” said Ahearne. “We need local candidates to help the national campaign for independents.” 

Pressed on MPs expenses, Ahearne explained that independents were not just focused on this single issue. “That’s not the only reason to stand as, and vote for, independent candidates. There are many others – not least of which is that party politics do not represent the electorate.”

You can listen again until Thursday 22nd October by visiting http://bit.ly/INradio5