NSCG’s Newcastle College hosts election hustings for local candidates

On Thursday 13 June, two of Newcastle-under-Lyme’s parliamentary candidates for the general election went head to head at a hustings event hosted at NSCG’s Newcastle College.

Representatives from The Labour Party and Conservative Party set out their priorities for the Newcastle-under-Lyme constituency, with the panel including Adam Jogee (Labour) and Simon Tagg (Conservative).

Organised by NSCG’s Student Services team, the event took a ‘Question Time’ style format and was chaired by A Level Politics lecturer, Nathan Greenwood. Ahead of the opening statements, students had the opportunity to complete an opinion poll to measure the impact the debate had on their voting intentions.

Students put forward questions on subjects that mattered most to them, with the first question challenging the panel to address the issue of the local Walleys Quarry Landfill site which has been subject to numerous complaints over foul-smelling odours.

The recent plan from the Conservative Party to require 18 years olds to take part in a form of National Service was also discussed, as well as the candidate’s plans to support the futures of young people.

The debate also took a broader look at national politics, with topics such as Brexit, the cost of living crisis and the Party’s leadership styles touched on.

Nathan Greenwood, A Level Politics lecturer, said: “The hustings are incredibly significant in terms of generating a strong link with the constituency MP. What we have seen today will help not only the students, but also staff members, to make an informed decision when casting their vote on July 4.

“The candidate’s responses to the questions clarified their positions on key central issues on both a local and national level, which goes a considerable way in generating and solidifying voter intention.”