26/01/2010

Kathryn Smith to be officially adopted as Gravesham Labour’s Parliamentary Candidate

Gravesham Constituency Labour Party will officially adopt Kathryn Smith as its Labour and Co-operative Parliamentary Candidate on Saturday 30th January.

Kathryn Smith has been a National Director of the Co-operative Group and the Co-operative Bank. A former Council Leader, Kathryn who has lived in North West Kent for many years was the overwhelming choice of the Party’s Membership. Speaking after the selection process Kathryn said: "I am looking forward to campaigning for the Labour Party in Gravesham. The Labour Government has delivered lasting benefits to the area, tackling pensioner poverty and investing in local schools and healthcare services."

"I will play an active role in the community. I will hold regular advice surgeries and work hard to ensure the views of Gravesham residents are heard at the highest level of Government."
Following the recent Parliamentary expenses scandal Kathryn made clear her position on expenses and has adopted five pledges on expenses.

 
As a parliamentary candidate I will subscribe to high standards of integrity, transparency, accountability and financial economy;

I seek elected office not for personal gain but to serve the public and our democracy, which I consider an honour and a privilege;

I will publish my expenses online within a month of submitting them and publicise them annually in full to constituents;

I will hold regular meetings with my community and will regularly report back to my constituency party;

I will apply the principle of best value to all decisions I make which involve the use of public money to cover my duties, including for travel and accommodation.