I've just sent out my final update to my email list, and I thought it would be a good summary of how the campaign has gone so far to post here too.
And it was a delight to have William Hague visit to show his support. You can see from the frequent visits we have received how seriously this election in Portsmouth is being taken by key ministers and all of us working in the Conservative Party. But it is the support of our volunteers which has allowed me to fight such an effective and positive campaign. Thanks to all of you for your help and support! Here's my email:
"This will be my last weekend update before the “big day” next Thursday. Naturally I am hoping that through my campaign I have persuaded you to support me, and also my Conservative colleagues standing in the council elections. However, if there is an issue troubling you, do get in touch. What happens in Portsmouth has a huge bearing on who is in No 10, David Cameron or Ed Miliband.
Although all Conservatives work as a team locally, if there are times when I have to stand up to the City Council, I will do so without hesitation. It is important that your MP is independent of the City Council so that she can fight for constituents.
That’s why I don’t think it right that an MP should also be a Councillor. There is far too much potential for a conflict of interest to arise. If you are having problems with the Council, it’s natural you should want to go to your MP. When your MP is also a Councillor, their independence is compromised. I'm disappointed at the other candidates who are standing in Portsmouth for both roles.
Integrity matters in politics. I have always been open about my beliefs and policies, and I have fought a positive campaign. Your MP should be an ambassador for the city, and project a positive image. The reputation of Portsmouth has taken a battering in recent years under the Lib Dems, and there is a lot of ground to make up.
My “Plan for Portsmouth” is at the heart of my campaign, and you will hopefully also have had through your door a copy of my “Contract” with you which sets out how I will represent you and the city if I’m successful next Thursday.
I find some of the media negativity about politicians an overreaction. When William Hague came to visit earlier this week, passers-by in Commercial Road mobbed him, taking selfies with him and were eager to talk to him about his time in politics – these were not party activists either!
He will be missed in Parliament, where I hope to be going to represent you after Thursday. If you support me, I will start work on Friday morning and get stuck straight in. This city had a decade of decline under the Lib Dems, but I believe with me as your advocate in Parliament and beyond, we can keep this city moving forwards again.
You can help me do that on Thursday! I know many of you have already given me your support by postal vote, and I look forward to working with all of you.
Best wishes,
Flick Drummond"
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