The buildup to the recent general election was something of a stormy six weeks, both nationally and for Eastbourne. Here, the six competing candidates had their mettle tested at a series of hustings, covering inequality, the environment and beyond.
The Chamber’s hustings focussed on issues involving the local economy, employment, and business.
Now that the dust has settled, we have the privilege of looking back over the proceedings in an excellent article written by Rebecca Maer in the Eastbourne Reporter.
Whilst the hustings may seem an almost distant memory, analysing what was said helps shine a light on what the future may hold for Eastbourne, and the challenges our new MP, Josh Babarinde OBE is facing.
We would like to thank the six candidates: Caroline Ansell, Mark Ashdown, Josh Babarinde, Ian Garbutt, Mike Munson and Paul Richardson for their participation.
We would also like to thank Eastbourne College for kindly lending us the Birley Centre for the evening.
The event was well attended, and we are grateful to everyone who came - especially those who participated with questions and by taking part in our exit poll.
Special thanks is owed to Paul Bromley for organising and hosting the event. His decades serving as a political journalist were evident in his incisive questioning and the apparent ease with which he kept a heated debate on the straight and narrow.
Please do take the time to read Rebecca Maer’s article here.
