Julia Manning


"How could I sit back and do nothing while lives around me disintegrated as crime flourished, and authority had its hands tied as bureaucracy and permissiveness undermined schooling, policing and parenting?"
- JULIA MANNING is a mother of two and London borough council candidate.

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I had always been interested in current affairs and politics and these were regular subjects around the supper table as I grew up. For many years the sole fruit of this interest were the letters I wrote on various issues about which I felt strongly.

However it was not until after I was married and living in South East London that I began to realise a personal challenge to get actively involved in 'my area' which initially revolved around church activities and local issues.

Over time I felt compelled to do more. How could I sit back and do nothing while lives around me disintegrated as crime flourished, and authority had its hands tied as bureaucracy and permissiveness undermined schooling, policing and parenting?

I had met good people from all the main political parties but the Conservative foundation of freedom-with-responsibilities appealed to me. And the CCF had no equal. Its publications and commitment to a range of issues from poverty to family to international aid were very impressive. Not only did I find like minds but a like determination to highlight injustice and lobby the Party on issues crucial to the well being of society.

I had the opportunity in October 2001 to address the Party Conference on the culture of fear and poverty of hope with which so many people in the inner city live. I ventured the points that alongside support for the police and the importance of families and community, we all have our part to play and should not 'pass by on the other side'. CCF provides the opportunity for Christians to get involved. I want the Conservative Party to be known as the Party of compassion but it will depend upon the commitment of people like you and me.

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