When I stood in the 2004 European elections I found that a lot of people
seemed to think that the EU didn't matter to them. Just look at how low
turnouts are in Euro elections. If you scratch the surface though,
it has a huge effect right across the South West. There are farmers
in Wiltshire struggling with red tape for their "single farm payment
cross compliance inspection". There are fishermen from Falmouth
throwing back good fish to meet "total allowable catch regulations".
There are business people from Tewkesbury to Land's End who have to
juggle running their companies while meeting ever more European
regulations, such as "carbon reduction targets". For all of them
too Europe is a crucial marketplace for their goods.
Perhaps most importantly, everyone in the South West pays for
the EU - on average £873 per person each year. A good
MEP is an advocate for all these people, a
guide to the labyrinths of Brussels and
most importantly a fierce fighter on their
side.
I promise to fight on your behalf to:
- Cut red tape and waste
- Make bureaucrats more accountable
- Stop the 'goldplating' of regulations
- Reject plans for a federal superstate
- Improve value for money
- Keep the pound
- Restore our national parliament's sovereignty
Making sure your voice is heard
I live in Gloucestershire with my husband, 14 year old son and widowed mother.
I am a graduate and have held senior buying and marketing positions with
companies ranging from Ford to Dixons and Boots Pic. I have had experience
of living and working overseas. I am a tireless campaigner with strong
experience and a track record of political achievement for the Conservatives
including:
- Leading the Conservative group to take control of Cotswold
District Council in 2003
- Playing a leading role in taking control of Gloucestershire
County Council in 2005
- Taking a high profile in the regeneration of urban Gloucester
on the Regeneration Company Board
- Lobbying the European Commission for Disaster Relief funding
after the July floods.
- Delivering record low council tax increases every year
since 2003.
I have been a member of the Conservative Party since university days.
I've worked in countless elections and stood in the 2004 European election.
I have a passion for the countryside and know the issues at its heart.
I have strong connections with local and national media and have appeared
frequently on TV news and current affairs programmes.
I believe our party needs mature, intelligent and experienced politicians to
stand up for our nation in Brussels. I know I can offer you these qualities.
To find out more about me, what I believe in and
the work I do please go to my website
www.juliegirling.com
