Cllr Emma Daniel
We take a look at crucial swing seat of Hanover and Elm Grove
In May 2015 the voters go to the polls to elect a new Council for Brighton and Hove. Currently there is a minority administration run by the Green Party. The city has 54 councillors spread over 21 electoral wards.
Of these the Greens have 20, Tories 18, Labour 13, Independent 2, and UKIP 1.
The real question lies in whether support for the Greens will collapse and voters return to Labour or seek pastures new. The city’s principal swing seat has to be Hanover and Elm Grove.
2013 By Election sensation
In 2007 and 2011 the Greens won all three seats- last time with majorities of over a 1,000. Then at a by election in July 2013 Labour’s Emma Daniel pulled off a by election sensation by defeating the Green candidate to win by 38 votes.
What remains to be seen is whether Labour can capitalise in on Cllr Daniel’s success and roll back the Greens further.
Cllr Emma Daniel said;
I’m quietly confident of increasing my majority. We are out on the streets twice a week meeting residents and getting a positive response.
I really enjoy meeting residents who say they are Tory- it’s such rare event.
Asked what did she most enjoy in politics, she replied;
My role as opposition spokesperson on the Community Safety Forum. We look out for everyone from people sleeping rough to those affected by outside events such as the dreadful events in France. I have loads of confidence in Sussex Police and the support they give to the community.
Brighton has a reputation for open mindedness and this can change people’s perspective on life. Intolerance is the one thing that isn’t tolerated here.
I believe in democracy and winning the argument.
Cllr Daniel was at the ‘Brighton Honours Charlie’ event outside Brighton Town Hall.
The Greens have 20 cllrs, not 21, and Labour have 13, not 12.