At the end of July, I was selected as the Conservative Parliamentary Candidate for Halifax in the next General Election. I am thrilled and honoured to represent this great town and its incredible people.
Firstly, I think it is important I tell you about myself. I live with my husband and two teenagers and moved to West Yorkshire over 20 years ago. I work in our local NHS Trust, where during the COVID-19 pandemic, I supported patients struggling with respiratory failure. My family and work are incredibly important to me.
Since I was selected, I have been busy visiting areas across Halifax. I particularly enjoyed the Halifax Agricultural Show.
It's been great to talk with people about local issues. For example, the delayed Calder Valley Rail Line electrification, poor recycling collections, the lack of leisure facilities in Halifax Town Centre, and increased parking charges in Shibden Park of up to 300%.
It is good to know residents, and Conservative Councillors are fighting against the Labour-run Calderdale Council on all these issues. As your local MP, I will continue this fight at the local and national levels to ensure your values and interests are fully represented.
Despite all these challenges, Halifax is a great town. The success of the Piece Hall is widely recognised, and it attracts people to Halifax from across the North, boosting the local economy. Beautiful architecture and countryside also contribute to Halifax’s success, with numerous TV and films being produced in the area. Halifax also has a wide range of businesses, such as Nestle and Lloyds Bank, which provide excellent and well-paid jobs.
However, Halifax has more potential to be unlocked. Local leaders should work with the national Conservative government which is spending over £50 million revitalising Town Centres across Calderdale. This investment aims to boost our high streets, but the increase in parking charges and lack of leisure facilities in Halifax contradict this investment and will reduce footfall and threaten jobs.
At the national level, inflation is reducing, and the economy is predicted to grow this year. Recently revised figures also showed the economy grew faster out of the pandemic. The economy is resilient and stronger under Conservative leadership.
If you would lend me your vote at the next General Election (no date as yet) I promise to be always accessible and your hard-working Member of Parliament for Halifax, I will be fully focused on improving opportunities for all residents and dealing with problems as quickly as possible.
Please follow my campaign on Facebook (Hazel Sharp) and Twitter (@hazel__sharp)
- Hazel Sharp, Conservative Parliamentary Candidate for Halifax
