Former MP for the Cities of London & Westminster, Nickie Aiken, explains why she is backing strong local choice Tim Barnes at Thursday's election. Nickie says,
"Thursday, 4 July, is our chance to elect a local candidate who will stand up for us in Parliament. To me, that candidate is Tim Barnes.
"Tim lives in Soho. He works on Strand. He is the only local candidate of the major parties.
"Being local is critical as it means Tim can truly represent us in Parliament. It means Tim uses the same services, walks the same streets, and can truly understand the local issues that need national focus.
"I've known Tim for many years. As Leader of Westminster City Council, I made him the Cabinet Member responsible for our schools, libraries and children's services. Tim had a £100 million budget and worked with local people to get the best out of these services.
"Tim will make an excellent MP for the Cities of London and Westminster. We need a local MP who will stand up for us and our priorities. Tim Barnes will stand up and fight for what matters to local people right across the Cities of London and Westminster. That's why I'm proud to back him at this General Election.
"I encourage you to vote for Tim Barnes, our strong local choice, at this General Election on Thursday, 4 July."