Prime Minister David Cameron is in Bristol this afternoon to back the ‘yes’ vote in the city's elected mayor referendum next week.
He is calling the vote a ‘once in a generation’ opportunity and told Radio 4's Today programme this morning: “The establishments in these cities are often massively against mayors, so that the only chance you have of actually getting change is offering the people the chance to step over the heads of the elites and say, actually, no we’d like this change. And I hope that in Bristol and Birmingham and elsewhere, people will vote for a mayor.
“So my message to voters is simple: don’t miss out. This is it. One moment. One chance. One day when you can change the course of your city. You can see that place you live in stagnate or reach for something more. Join the race or fall behind. If you want a powerful figure who loves your city running your city – get out and vote yes.”
Many business leaders in the city are backing the 'yes' vote as they see an elected mayor as a vital step in helping Bristol punch its weight on the national and international scene.
So far the only potential candidate to say he may stand should Bristolians vote in favour of a directly-elected mayor in the referendum is architect and businessman George Ferguson.
The one-time Liberal council, former president of the Royal Institute of British Architects and creater of Bristol's Tobacco Factor, has said he is likely to stand as an independent. He is expected to be joined by a range of candidates including those backed by the main political parties as well as other independents.
Also taking place, at Bristol Grammar School at 6.30pm this evening, is a public discussion on the mayoral debate – which includes a pro-Mayoral talk from Roy Mallen, a policeman who went on to become Mayor of Middlesborough. Other speakers include Peter Abraham, leader of the Bristol Conservative Party, Gus Baker, President of the Students’ Union and Labour’s Paul Smith, Alderman of Bristol City Council.
Christina Zaba, of the Mayor of Bristol campaign, said: “This is a chance for everyone to come and learn more about what elected mayors are about. With the vote in Bristol now a little over a week away, it’s important everyone knows what they’re voting for.”
As an independent, locally-owned and produced website, Bristol Business News is backing an elected mayor for Bristol. However, we will report accurately and fairly all sides of the debate.
