MORE than 100 people turned out to see the Halesowen and Rowley Regis election candidates put on the spot at a hustings last night (Monday).

All seven candidates attended the hustings at Holy Trinity Church, in Old Hill, which was organised by reverend Richard Hackett after he became dismayed at people attacking individuals in the run-up to Thursday's general election.

 

 

Ian Cooper (Labour), Jon Cross (Independent), Ian Fleming (Independent), James Morris (Conservatives), Ryan Priest (Liberal Democrats), Tim Weller (Independent) and James Windridge (Greens) were asked questions on topics including the integrity of democracy; trusting politicians; education; the NHS; the High Street, Brexit; healing the divisions caused by Brexit; the economy; climate change and transport.

Reverend Nick Gowers, who chaired the event, said: "Each of the seven candidates had their chance to present their views clearly without attacking individuals.

"Christmas is a time of hope and goodwill and in the midst of people fears and divisions it was good to see our candidates speaking generously and clearly and seeking to bring people together."

Rev Gowers said he hoped the good-natured event had helped "restore trust in the democratic process and heal divisions."

More than 40 questions had been submitted - with some from students at Cradley Heath secondary school Ormiston Forge Academy - the organisers then selected the key issues raised and asked a fewer number of questions in a way which gave every candidate a chance to respond.

The evening started at 7.30pm with each candidate giving a 90 second statement - the questions were then posed - and the event ended with the candidates giving another 90 second speech.

The candidates did not see the questions before the hustings.

James Morris has been MP for Halesowen and Rowley Regis for the Conservatives since 2010.