Chris French is a longtime Vauxhall resident and the Liberal Democrat candidate for both the Vauxhall parliamentary seat and the Lambeth and Southwark constituency in the upcoming London Assembly elections. With over a decade of local involvement and a strong connection to the area, French is committed to representing his community's interests both locally and in broader governmental bodies.
French has been deeply involved in the Vauxhall community, particularly highlighted by his founding of Lambeth Links, a charity dedicated to supporting the LGBTQ+ population in Lambeth, the largest in any London borough. This charity focuses on improving safety, health, and access to statutory services for the community.
In addition to his charitable work, French has professional experience in healthcare policy and strategy, having worked for a healthcare regulator and a large consultancy firm. He now operates his own social enterprise, working with various local groups to support the NHS and enhance community welfare.
In the May 2022 Lambeth local elections, French was a strong contender, coming in close second to Labour in the Waterloo and South Bank ward. His campaign addresses several critical issues, including the cost of living crisis, housing quality, and local democratic engagement.
He advocates for a liberal voice in Vauxhall to counteract what he perceives as the negative impacts of national Conservative governance and local Labour administration mismanagement.
Chris French is an avid walker, currently working on completing the London Loop. This hobby often takes him across Vauxhall and surrounding areas, further deepening his connection to the constituency.
Upon his selection as the Liberal Democrat candidate, French expressed his honor and pride in representing Vauxhall, emphasizing the diversity and vibrancy of its communities. He voiced his commitment to addressing the pressing concerns of Vauxhall residents, such as the cost of living, housing quality, and local governance issues.
Sarah Lewis, Chair of the Lambeth Liberal Democrats, praised French's selection, highlighting his dedication and effectiveness in campaigning and addressing local concerns. She underscored the need for new leadership that can offer a fresh and liberal perspective in contrast to the existing political leadership.
Chris French represents a passionate and community-focused candidacy for Vauxhall, with a background in both professional and charitable sectors. His campaign focuses on providing a liberal alternative to address the needs and concerns of local residents, aiming to bring about significant change and improvement in their daily lives.
The Liberal Democrats of the United Kingdom are founded on a blend of liberal and social democratic ideologies. They primarily advocate for social liberalism, which supports wealth redistribution while maintaining a critical view of increased state power.
The party emphasizes the intrinsic link between liberty and equality, promoting investments and progressive taxation alongside championing civil liberties and advocating for a less centralized economy. This approach sets them apart from many European liberal parties, which often focus more on classical liberalism.
The Liberal Democrats position themselves across the centre to centre-left spectrum, fluctuating in emphasis over time. Historically seen as centre-left, they were perceived as more centrist during the Cameron–Clegg coalition era.
Economically, they often find themselves between the Conservative and Labour parties, generally leaning closer to Labour. Influential figures like Leonard Hobhouse and Anthony Crosland have notably shaped the party's ideology, particularly in aligning with Crosland's vision of social democracy.
The party is a strong proponent of constitutional reforms, advocating for a decentralized federal structure within the UK, including significant devolution of powers to Scotland, Wales, and English regions. They have consistently supported electoral reforms towards more proportional representation and maintain progressive stances on social issues like LGBT rights and drug reforms.
Their internationalist outlook is evidenced by their sustained advocacy for European integration, including support for the UK adopting the euro, while opposing a European army.
There is a notable ideological diversity within the Liberal Democrats, with various factions advocating different shades of liberal thought. The majority faction, the Social Liberal Forum, supports extensive social liberal policies.
Other groups like the Liberal Reform and "Orange Bookers" propose more economically liberal policies. The party has also debated but not implemented policies like all-women shortlists, reflecting ongoing discussions about equality and representation methods.
The Liberal Democrats have a history of supporting social welfare spending and economic policies that balance free market operations with social protection mechanisms. They have proposed various reforms over the years, including education investment, opposition to further privatization or nationalization, and tax reforms aimed at supporting lower-income groups while ensuring fiscal responsibility.
The party has taken a strong stance on several international issues, supporting interventions where internationally lawful and advocating for responsible foreign policies regarding arms and conflict. They have been a vocal proponent of the UK's involvement in the European Union, promoting policies that enhance integration while also accommodating Eurosceptic perspectives within the party at times.