Election pledge

Leaders of all three main political parties have signed a cross-party election pledge aimed at promoting mutual respect and eliminating discrimination in the forthcoming election campaign.

The pledge sets out standards which all prospective candidates and their members must adhere to. By signing it, party leaders have agreed to represent the interests of all constituents regardless of race, sex, colour, religion or any other discriminating factor and promote good race relations.

They promise to reject all forms of racial violence, harassment and unlawful discrimination and not publish or in any way endorse any material likely to generate hostility or division between people of different racial, national or religious groups.

They will also make sure everyone involved in the election campaign abides by these principles.

In endorsing this declaration, Council Leader Councillor Irene Davidson, Conservative Group Leader Councillor Ashley Dearnley and Labour Group Leader Councillor Colin Lambert agreed to accept responsibility to ensure that any alleged breach is properly investigated and that appropriate action is taken against any candidate, party member or person acting on behalf of the party or a candidate, who knowingly fails to comply with the principles.

Council Leader Irene Davidson said: “As councillors we are elected to serve all people in this borough. We recognise the importance of building a cohesive community, founded on principles of equality and respect for diversity. Discrimination in any form should play no part in an election contest. Indeed, we are proud of the history this borough has of working co-operatively and promoting community cohesion.”

Conservative Leader Councillor Ashley Dearnley said: “In our dealings with our constituents, different communities, fellow councillors, the media, local agencies, community organisations and businesses we will endeavour to promote community cohesion. Only by working together locally on this will we build cohesive communities and develop a thriving borough where we all have a sense of pride and belonging based on mutual respect.”

Labour Leader Councillor Colin Lambert added: “We will take a stand against any form of discrimination to create a safe, strong and inclusive community. We are all committed to an environment in which the traditions and values of different residents in our community are understood and respected and now is a good time to re state the principles we live our lives by. We have a duty to understand each other and respect each others values and the values of our country.”

All local and general election candidates will be invited to sign the pledge in the coming weeks.