LUD FOR ERD - Michael Lutwyche for Erdington

My name is Michael Lutwyche. I live on the Pitts Farm Estate in Erdington and I intend to stand as an independent candidate in the forthcoming Erdington by-election.

I have been a committed Justice for the 21 campaigner for the last decade. During that time I have had to become a fundraiser, politician, an expert on the Troubles and at the same time becoming a constant thorn in the side of the authorities who deny our people justice. Simply by refusing to be ignored, I have helped bring a local campaign once considered a forlorn hope into the national and international spotlight.

Due to my association with Justice for the 21, people will naturally assume I am a single issue candidate. That's true in part, if I have a single issue it's hardworking, law-abiding tax-payers being ignored by those in authority whose wages they pay.

That is why I am standing for election. Birmingham Erdington is considered a safe Labour seat and it's taken for granted whoever is selected by that party will win. As has been shown recently there's nothing to choose between the two main parties. The established political parties take our votes then follow their own agenda regardless. Those agendas are no longer set by the concerns of constituents or public opinion, but by the lobbyists for international corporations, whose billions buy real influence.

Where has voting for the main political parties got us over the last thirty years? Have our opportunities, prospects and those of our children improved? Do the areas we live in feel safer? Are they cleaner? Are there more facilities? I think we all know the answer to that. Our politicians deceive us and squander billions of our money while people like us worry about putting food on the table. Easy come, easy go.

I am from North Birmingham, it's the only place I want to be. I live in the constituency, I walk its streets and its parks. I do my shopping on the High St, down the Vale or up the Hawthorn. I'm not an out of touch career politician. I have had proper jobs, I live in the real world, I know the struggle ordinary people face.

I intend to represent the people of Erdington as one of them, not as someone seeking a luxurious lifestyle while people in my constituency are deciding between heating or eating. Therefore if elected, I will only take the average wage of a local tradesman. The rest will be given straight to local good causes within Erdington, Castle Vale and Kingstanding; food banks, gyms, sports facilities and clubs for our youth, the volunteer litter pickers or to fund help for people who can't access NHS healthcare, such as mental health services.

I intend to fight for local issues that concern the people of the constituency.

Crime: Personal safety and antisocial behaviour. Even the police admit parts of Erdington have become ghettos. That hasn't just happened overnight, but gradually through the mismanagement and indifference of those in power. I will call those responsible to account.

Healthcare: People can't access doctors or dentists. GPs have gone missing, people are experiencing unreasonably long waiting times just to talk to a receptionist. This has placed an unnecessary strain on the NHS, especially A&E departments and limits access to services. I will hold local GPs to account.

Cost of Living: Our people are worried about inflation, they're concerned about massive rises in fuel and energy bills, affording basic essentials. All this along with a rise in National Insurance contributions. Politicians need to be sent a message, elect me and that message will be sent loud and clear.

People are also worried about employment prospects. They want opportunities for their young. Accessible and affordable childcare. They're worried about their open spaces and community assets being lost.

They're worried about a once safe and proud area deteriorating in front of their very eyes.

As an Independent candidate, I won't be constrained by a party political agenda. One thing I can guarantee is that if it needs saying, I'll say it loudly and persistently, on behalf of the people of Erdington. I have a proven track record of doing that and succeeding. A vote for me WON'T be a wasted vote.

We have a chance in Erdington to send a shockwave through the political system, not just because I am the last person they want turning up in Parliament but in voting for someone totally independent. I am not someone who talks a good game then disappears but someone who genuinely cares about the area and its people. Someone ready to fight for it and the concerns of its constituents.

I am running this campaign on virtually zero resources, if you would like to make a donation to help me compete with the established political parties you can donate using the donate button this page. As ever, thank you for your belief and support.