Independents’ Days

Anyone interested in the future of Independent politics should add a couple of dates to their diary, with the news of two forthcoming events for independents.

First up is the Local Government Association’s (LGA) Smith Square debate on Monday 26th October, where speakers – including Martin Bell – will discuss whether the time is ripe for voters to break from the mainstream political parties. Also on discussion will be the impact that increased numbers of independents will have on local and national government – will they produce a more representative system, or could more coalition lead to a lack of direction?

Other guest speakers include the crossbencher Lord Best; the Lib Dem PPC for Islington South & Finsbury Bridget Fox; and Professor Colin Copus from the London Government Research Unit. The debate is held in Bevin Hall on the ground floor of Local Government House, Smith Square SW1, from 6 – 8pm. It’s open for all to attend, so if you’d like to attend email the LGA at event@lga.gov.uk . 

Following close on its heels is the London Councils Summit, the annual free conference for borough councillors and candidates in London’s local elections.

The Summit takes place on November 7th at the Queen Elizabeth Conference Centre and will include sessions on why local politics matters; how politicians can build people’s trust; and what London voters consider to be the biggest local issues. What’s more, the LGA Independent Group will be running a network meeting for councillors and candidates, making this a must for any independent standing in next May’s local elections in London. Space is limited though, so if you want to attend you should book your place at www.londoncouncils.gov.uk/summit2009