Green Party Candidate Charlie Bolton Responds To BedminsterPeople's Questions

Charlie Bolton, the Green Party candidate for Bristol South, answers our questions on cider, Sainsbury’s and why we should vote for him.

Q:  The increase in duty on cider wasn’t a popular move here. What are your thoughts on it?

A: Party policy is to substantially increase duty on alcohol (and tobacco).

It’s a health thing.

Q: Sainsbury’s is seeking planning permission to build one of the biggest stores in the South West here at Ashton Gate. What do you think of the proposal?

A: I campaigned long and hard against Tesco at Ashton Gate. Sainsbury's has many of the same problems. Ultimately, it is far too big. I think it is a bad idea.

Q: What would you do to improve education and training for both adults and young people in this area?

A: The Green Party manifesto calls for massive investment in training and jobs for a green economy. We are pushing something called the green new deal - which seeks to get out of the recession by investing in measures to combat climate change. Hence training for green jobs.

Q: What do you think are the top three issues facing this constituency? What would you do about them?

A: Traffic. I'd improve the bus service(!), and facilities for cycling - also reduce the need for travel by improving local high streets

Greenbelt and green space. We need to preserve it, value it, treasure it

Education. Small, top quality, local schools for all

Q:  What particular issues are you campaigning on that would benefit us in Windmill Hill, Bedminster and Southville?

A: Strong local high streets with a range of local facilites eg post offices eg North St, East St, Bedminster Parade and West St

More power to the people

More walking and cycling, less driving

Q: How would you sum up your beliefs and personality in less than 30 words?

A: Grumpy optimist

Q: Briefly, why should we vote for you?

A: To keep the 'green' pressure on.

To give voice to an alternative to Labour, LibDem and Tory

You can read Charlie Bolton's Southville blog here and visit the Green Party website here.