I support the drive for open government, and councillors websites are a great way for us to get our message across to the residents we represent.

Basingstoke is an amazing town, and a beautiful Borough. I have spent 4 years as a member of one of the most forward thinking, dynamic and 'can do' local authorities in the country.

“There is no doubt that in spite of the advances made in the latter half of the last century and the early years of this century towards equality of opportunity and social inclusion there remain unacceptable inequalities and resultant injustices in local communities. The borough of Basingstoke and Deane, however prosperous overall, does not escape such inequity.

There is, however, good reason to believe that Basingstoke is well placed to become, for boroughs of its size in the country, a model of social inclusion. It is a young town with pride in our past achievements: it is forward-looking and adventurous and its people are warm-hearted, free from bigotry and ready to seize opportunity. It is strong, safe, lively and optimistic. It is ready to embrace the challenges of the future with a commitment to valuing equally all of its people and neighbourhoods and to improving aspirations among all ages, while removing impediments to progress for all.

The future will be filled with pride in our environment, both built and natural: magnificent public spaces; beautiful rural areas; impressive and affordable homes with ready access throughout to services and facilities of the highest quality.

No-one will be disadvantaged by where they are born or brought up and we will be able to show the rest of the country what can be achieved by celebration of diversity, as everyone in our communities is supported in her or his legitimate aspirations for personal improvement and well-being. Such a notion of improved quality of life for all goes beyond material wealth: our people will thrive in work, health, leisure, cultural and spiritual well-being in a borough famous for public debate of some substance in the context of a shared commitment to the good of all.

Basingstoke and Deane can become synonymous with inclusion, wellbeing and regeneration: it can be held up as a beacon for others to see what can be achieved in a borough with such ambition and with such talented, welcoming and confident people.“

Paul Harvey