Julie Marie Jones-Evans

Whoever is leading the Government on June 9th, the Isle of Wight will not be their top priority, however as the Island’s MP it will be my single point of focus. Many people feel it is time we had someone representing them that will be solely focused on representing the Island because successive Governments have failed to understand the unique challenges we face. We know we have the ability to progress with a hand up, not just handouts. I believe we should be looking for an Island deal, an opportunity for real localism, to enable effective local governance and a chance to steer ourselves to a place of wellbeing and prosperity. WELLBEING & PROSPERITY, Three Principles: 1. Economic -Building a strong, resilient and competitive economy 2. Social - supporting strong, vibrant and healthy communities 3. Environment – Protecting and enhancing our natural, built and historic environment Economy: • Small business micro funding and improved support. • Cut VAT for Tourism. • Circular Economy and the Island pound. Transport: • Back the feasibility study to determine facts regarding any fixed link. • Work on solutions for rural bus travel. • Create infrastructure for pedestrians and cyclists for able-bodied and disabled users. • Road safety -20mph in residential streets and town and village centres. Education: • Make wellbeing as important as learning. • Rebalance academic and vocational studies. • Adjust the school terms for improved family life and educational attainment. • Early Special Educational Needs diagnosis with ongoing support. Health: • Support the team at St Mary’s Hospital for improving and retaining services. • Increase mental health provision for early intervention, especially for anxiety. • Adult Social Care, lobby to end the post code lottery of care. • More care for carers, so they can continue to support their loved ones. • Raise aspirations for young people to choose a career in health Housing: • Build affordable rental properties in sustainable brown-field sites. • Support housing that can be built quickly using pre-fabricated methods. • Counter the negative effects that land banking can have on a community. Environment • Campaign for a smart grid for solar energy • Wind turbines in industrial parks, the Island a beacon for green energy • Protect our AONB status More at: https://www.juliejonesevans.org/commitments