Urgent appeal for funds to fight Newark by-election

May 8, 2014 by matthewbain 4 Comments

PLEASE SHARE WIDELY

On the 5th June there will be a by-election in Newark. If you are one of the national Green Party members or supporters who thinks it is vital that we stand and contest Parliamentary by-elections then we need you to show your support in the next 72 hours.

East Midlands Green Party has expressed support for the idea of standing, but a final democratic decision and selection of candidate have still to be concluded. They have authorised me to make this appeal on their behalf. An absolute minimum requirement is that the campaign raises £1,500 to enable them to pay for a freepost leaflet and to cover the deposit.This will not be a paper candidate: if we stand, we stand to fight the seat. The seat will be a focus of national interest following the resignation of the previous MP, and coming just 2 weeks after the European results.

It is essential that Newark voters have the option to choose a Westminster party that opposes austerity and, since the selection of Roger Helmer UKIP’s energy spokesman, this will be an opportunity for the Green Party to challenge the UKIP position on renewable energy as well as the extreme views Mr. Helmer holds on a variety of issues including rape and homosexuality.

We are currently seeking nominations for potential candidates. I myself have already agreed to stand for nomination to be the candidate as I was born in the town and still live and work locally and feel that Newark has to be able to choose an alternative to austerity and, as a gay man and trade unionist, want to ensure people in Newark know there’s more to UKIP than the Farage grin.

Please pledge your support with whatever amount you can and send that pledge to david.kirwan@greenparty.org.uk in the next 72 hours. If enough pledges are received we will then contact you with details of how to make your donation.

As you know the Green Party do not have big business or other organisations to bankroll us so we rely on your support, please consider supporting our campaign. If you are not in a position to pledge financial support perhaps you would consider joining the campaign team to give practical support on the ground? Thank you in advance for your support and please pass this message to any individuals or groups you know that may be willing to help.

Thanks

David Kirwan
East Midlands Green Party
david.kirwan@greenparty.org.uk