And the candidate? Well that would be me, Ian Parker-Joseph.
I have been running this blog now since November 2006, and took a decision some time ago that it was about time that I stopped just talking and writing about the problems that face this country, and do something positive about it.
As one of the earliest members of the Libertarian Party I have been very lucky in being able to assist in the shaping of much of the Party policy which will be the backbone of our campaign.
You can see the Party manifesto here on the LPUK website, and you can view my campaign blog here.
In it I said:
Whilst the Libertarian Party is new to the established political scene, our aim is to provide a real alternative to the State-centred policies being enacted by our incumbent Government, and to which the Conservative and Liberal Democrat parties offer only token opposition.
Our approach to politics is radically different, in that we put the liberties and rights of the individual before those of the State. We believe, and will campaign for, the State and its elected representatives to return to their rightful role: that of public servants, rather than masters of the public. I believe in small government, and in honest government; where policy, decision making and all public expenditure -- including the taxpayers' money that MPs spend on themselves -- is transparent, with information freely available to everyone, at all times.
I want to see a Britain free from Government interference in everyday life, a Britain where business is free of the burdens of overweight regulation and tax, and a Britain where every individual is free to make their own choices in life, unfettered by government imposed taxes that limit opportunity, and State attempts to enforce a mandated lifestyle upon them.
I am a Libertarian. I believe in small government, individual freedom, low taxation and a minimum of regulation. I believe deeply and passionately in freedom and independence in all areas of life.
My background is one of Business Consulting, Programme and Project Management, providing practical help and assistance to organisations with failing projects and policies.
I am not a career politician who has only ever known University and Westminster, I live and work in the real world and like you every working day I see businesses struggling to keep up with more and more regulation, with companies and the public suffering with the ever increasing tax burden.
This cycle of destruction has gone far enough. Everything that the State touches -- from health and education, through policing and pensions -- is cursed by the micro-management of bureaucracy run wild, resulting in an endemic waste of resources, and preventing key front-line staff from actually doing the important work that they are employed to do, and so desperately want to do.
With their gold-plated pensions, and a revolving door into companies granted Government contracts, those in Westminster are happy to see this situation continue. I am not. With your help, I intend to be part of a new type of Government; one that aims to lift these burdens, and one that will put power back into the hands of those to whom it rightfully belongs -- the Great British public.
If you believe, as I do that it really is time for a change in the UK, then please support me and my campaign by donating to the Libertarian Party.
For details on how to donate to the Libertarian Party and our rules, please click the icon below.
We are not a rich Party, and cannot compete with the millions of pounds that the other Parties have to pour into an election without your help.
Lets make a difference, together.
Your Life, Your Country, Your Choice.
