FIVE politicians vying to represent Worcester in parliament are set to be challenged at a city centre pub which is aiming to bring ‘democracy to the people’.
The Cap N’ Gown, situated on the Upper Tything, will be hosting a series of ten hustings events in the lead up the General Election on Thursday, May 7.
Worcester MP Robin Walker along with parliamentary candidates from Labour, the Greens, UKIP and Liberal Democrats will be attending the debating sessions which will take place every Monday at 7pm throughout March and April.
The event, which begins on March 2 and finishes on May 4, will see the five candidates have five minutes each to discuss a certain issue which will include immigration, the NHS and climate change.
Ted Marshall, landlord of the Cap N’ Gown, said it was a unique opportunity for Worcester residents to gain an insight into the five party’s views as they will get the chance to ask them questions as part of a 45-minute-long question time.
“I am not aware of any pub that has got commitment from all the candidates for a ten week period to debate one by one all the great issues facing our country,” he said.
“It is about bringing democracy to the people of Worcester and this will enable them to meet their local candidates and understand who they trust and like.
“Secondly it will enable them to take a view about all the great issues of today and make up their own mind where they stand.”
He added: “I think all the parties have views which make sense. They also have policies that don’t make sense to me.
“I’m truly a floating voter but I do believe it’s important in the end to make a decision and cast our vote.
“Worcester is also a very marginal seat which makes it even more interesting.
Students at RGS Worcester will also be involved in the event as the school will open up its hall to allow people to view the discussions via a live web-cam.
People can also follow what is happening and any changes by liking the Cap n Gown Facebook page and following @CapnGownWorc on Twitter.
<b>Here is a list of the issues which will be discussed:-</b>
Monday, March 2 – Europe
Monday, March 9 – Constitutional reform
Monday, March 16 – Environment and climate change
Monday, March 23 – Immigration
Monday, March 30 – Britain’s place in the world/Islamic state
Monday, April 6 – Tax and the Welfare State
Monday, April 13 – NHS
Monday, April 20 – Education
Monday, April 27 – Economic policy and business
Monday, May 4 – Why you should vote for me?
