Thank you for your letter regarding the by-election at St. Columb Minor and Colan, I have written my response below.
- Do I support a return to closer links with Europe?
Absolutely, the world is currently a very unstable place and we need to work closely with our friends across the Channel to ensure we are strong both in trade and standing up to adversaries. United we stand but divided we fall seems a suitable phrase. Prior to Brexit Johnson and Farage promised Cornwall would be no worse off out of Europe and the NHS would gain over £300k per week. Clearly not true Cornwall is far worse off now and Reform would see much of our NHS privatised.
- Would I vote to rejoin in another referendum?
Yes, and I cannot imagine that a single fisherman in Cornwall would not agree. They have seen their fishing grounds traded off, markets collapse and exports stifled through bureaucracy.
- Do you support the plan for devolution?
Yes, but only without the demand for a combined SW authority and mayor. I was delighted that the LibDem led administration managed to stand firm on this point and await the agreed concessions. Cornwall has a very special and unique character and whether like me you are a born and bred proud Cornishman, or have moved to the area and are Cornish by choice, we must do everything possible to protect the special identity of our fabulous Duchy.
