Local members of parliament battling it out to become Wyre Forest's next MP were quizzed by students at Kidderminster College during a ‘Non-Selective’ Hustings Event.
The event was open to staff and students, fostering an inclusive environment where all voices could be heard. Before the event, students were invited to submit their questions, ensuring that the candidates addressed the issues that matter most to the younger generation. The live portion of the event, held in the college theatre, allowed for spontaneous questioning of the debate.
The event featured a diverse panel of candidates, Mark Garnier representing the Conservatives, Shazu Miah of the Liberal Democrats, John Davis of the Green Party, Rod Stanczyszyn for the Labour Party, and Bill Hopkins for Reform UK. Each candidate could present their policies and visions for the future.
The candidates were asked to share their views on various issues, including the NHS, climate change, the cost of car insurance, and Rishi Sunak's national service plan.
On the NHS, Mr Stanczyszyn stated that Labour's primary goal is to ensure the NHS is "fit for purpose for the rest of this century."
Mr Miah mentioned that the Liberal Democrats plan to fund 8,000 additional GPs so people can access a doctor within seven days by "properly" financing it.
Bill Hopkins argued that the NHS requires a "total reform" and reorganisation, describing it as a "bottomless pit."
Mark Garnier highlighted: "We are looking to recruit a further 28,000 doctors and a further 92,000 nurses."
John Davis emphasised the need for more nurses in the NHS, stating that the Green Party would offer proper pay to avoid further strikes from junior doctors or other staff.
