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Gary Stevens - Dulwich And West Norwood
2024 United Kingdom general election - Member Of Parliament Candidate - July, 4, 2024
Electorate of Dulwich and West Norwood - Reform UK - United Kingdom
Who is Gary Stevens?
Gary Stevens was born and raised on a sheep and cattle farm in Southland, New Zealand. He has lived and worked in several major cities, including Sydney, Amsterdam, Hong Kong, and London.
Currently, he resides in Bromley with his wife, who is a Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO) teacher in Dulwich, and their two sons.
Connection to DAWN:
Stevens has strong ties to the Dulwich and West Norwood area, having lived in various locations within the constituency since the early 1990s. His first job in the UK was at the Crown & Greyhound pub in Dulwich Village.
He has been actively involved with a local rugby club in Dulwich for nine years and is an IRB-qualified rugby coach.
Professional Background:
Stevens has had a long career in IT and finance, starting in investment banking in London in the early 1990s. He is currently a Director at an investment bank, working on high-profile projects as a Program Manager.
This role is a fulfillment of his dream to live and work in IT and finance in London.
Political Involvement:
After years of following politics, Stevens became actively involved in 2017. In 2018, he was elected as a local Councillor in Bromley.
During his tenure, he addressed issues such as housing, planning, traffic, and community projects. Notably, he led an initiative to implement secure online council meetings during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Focus for DAWN:
As an MP, Stevens intends to prioritize the people of Dulwich and West Norwood. He plans to address local issues and support community organizations, particularly those relying on volunteers.
His experience in sports club management will help him engage with and support local clubs and organizations, which he views as vital to the community.
Policy Stance:
Stevens stands firmly against Low Traffic Neighbourhoods (LTNs) and the Ultra-Low Emission Zone (ULEZ), arguing that these measures harm social cohesion and disproportionately affect the poorest communities. He supports Reform UK's policy to legislate their removal across DAWN and the UK.
General Election 2024:
Rishi Sunak called a snap election for 4 July 2024 on 22 May 2024. Stevens criticizes this move as an attempt to subvert democracy by limiting the time for candidates to organize campaigns.
He assures that Reform UK is committed to fielding a full list of candidates and ensuring a democratic choice for the British people on 4 July 2024. Stevens envisions this date as the UK's own Independence Day, aiming to move beyond the dominance of the Labour and Conservative parties.
What are Gary Stevens's Political Values?
Reform UK presents itself as a political alternative to the traditional two-party system in Britain, criticizing both the Conservative and Labour parties for their perceived failures. The party positions itself as a champion of common sense, aiming to address the numerous crises it perceives in British society, from immigration and public spending to healthcare and energy policies.
Freeze on Non-Essential Immigration:
Reform UK proposes a strict limit on non-essential immigration, arguing that it will alleviate pressure on housing, public services, and wages, and protect British culture and values. The party plans to implement a robust strategy to prevent illegal immigration, including detaining and deporting illegal migrants and ending health tourism and immediate access to benefits for new arrivals.
Tax Reductions and Incentives:
The economic strategy includes significant tax cuts aimed at boosting the income of the working class and incentivizing small businesses. Key measures include raising the income tax threshold, reducing corporation tax for small and medium-sized enterprises, and abolishing certain business taxes to encourage investment and economic growth.
Zero NHS Waiting Lists and Tax Breaks:
Reform UK seeks to eliminate NHS waiting lists and proposes tax breaks for healthcare workers to address staff shortages. The party advocates for using private healthcare capacity to alleviate the burden on the NHS, suggesting a voucher system for patients facing long wait times.
Rejection of Net Zero Goals:
A controversial aspect of their platform is the rejection of Net Zero carbon goals, which the party claims are economically damaging. Reform UK intends to revive the domestic oil and gas industries, reduce reliance on renewable energy subsidies, and explore new nuclear technology without the constraints of current environmental regulations.
Strengthening Law and Order:
The party pledges to increase police numbers, implement zero tolerance policies on crime, and expedite the deportation of foreign criminals. It also aims to reform the justice system by mandating life sentences for repeat violent offenders and enhancing the budget for criminal justice.
Constitutional and Democratic Reforms:
Reform UK calls for significant constitutional reforms, including leaving the European Convention on Human Rights, reforming the House of Lords, and introducing a proportional representation voting system. These changes are aimed at making Britain's political system more democratic and accountable.
A Call for Radical Change:
Reform UK’s platform is built on a foundation of radical change across multiple sectors of government and society. The party seeks to dismantle what it views as failed policies and replace them with a framework that prioritizes British sovereignty, cultural identity, and economic independence.
