We asked Braintree's only independent candidate Toby Pereira six questions, but only gave him 50 words to answer.
These are the results:
1.What do think about the current Government-set house building targets in Braintree? If you don’t agree with them, how will you fight them?
I agree that we need to build more housing and the infrastructure to go with it to meet demand, in Braintree and the rest of the country.
2. Apart from the NHS, what should be the government’s number one spending priority?
Public transport and better facilities for cyclists and pedestrians.
3. What personally sets you apart from the other candidates?
I am an independent candidate, so I am answerable only to the constituents of Braintree and my own conscience. I support policies that are based on overall fairness rather than those that are in favour of any particular group.
4. Name a pledge you will fulfil, if elected, within 100 days.
I couldn't promise changes in legislation as an independent candidate. But I would promise to listen to the Braintree constituents, and make as much noise as possible about changes that need to happen - e.g. electoral reform, measures to reduce inequality, improvements to public transport and measures to tackle climate change.
5. What do you think is the biggest challenge Braintree will face over the next five years (house building aside)?
The inadequacy of its of public transport.
6. Is there a policy or piece of legislation YOU would personally propose if elected which is not in your party’s manifesto?
There are several. In particular I would propose a system of proportional representation for our general elections that offers proportionality at national level and is candidate-based rather than party-based. People's ability to take part in the democratic process should not be dependent on location.
Oh, and if you don't mind...ten quick questions:
1. If I could give the younger me one piece of advice…I would say don't go back and mess with the timeline just for a questionnaire.
2. The first record I bought was…Me and the Farmer by the Housemartins.
3. My most embarrassing moment was…the realisation that this is going in the newspaper.
4. The special talent I wish I had is…the ability to answer questionnaires like this without getting stuck for answers.
5. My guilty pleasure is…answering silly questions with silly answers.
6. My proudest moment was… winning the Rayne Radio Control Car Club championship.
7. What scares me is…that questions 8, 9 and 10 might be a step up in difficulty.
8. If I had one day left to fulfil my bucket list I would…come up with a bucket list. It's number one on my list.
9. If I was stuck on a desert island (and my family were at home) I would be there with… I don't know. I'd have a look around and see who was there!
10. My most read book is…Green Eggs and Ham by Dr. Seuss.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article