Joe Robertson launched his campaign to become the inaugural MP for Isle of Wight East in Ventnor today (Friday) during a visit by Trade Policy Minister, Greg Hands. After a fresh haircut on Thursday, Joe is ready for a busy 6 weeks of campaigning to secure votes from those living in the new constituency, which has come about following changes by the Boundary Commission. Greg Hands MP accompanied Joe on a visit to Leeson Road, where the plight of the residents of Ventnor was made clear, as was the need for central Government funding. This was followed by a visit to local firm Cheetah Marine on Ventnor Esplanade, where the Minister and Joe Robertson were given a tour of the factory. Conservative supporters gathered to mark the launch of Joe’s campaign, although it was noted that weeks of work had already taken place with doors visited across the East. 
Speaking to Island Echo, Joe explained his top 3 priorities – if he was elected…
“Supporting local schools is important – education is everything. If you give a child a good start in life it will lead to everything thereafter. We know that schools have faced challenges for a while, especially around literacy. Kids aren’t up to their reading and writing age, they fall behind in everything – which then leads on to business and jobs. “Promoting business and jobs is a key priority for me, as is healthcare – community care in particular. “The NHS has a lot of money and it needs more, but where you put that money is crucial. More funding is needed for GP practices and community nursing”.
The Minister believes that the Conservatives can win the election, summarised with “Rishi is the man with the plan”. The Conservative candidate is set to go up against Labour’s Emily Brothers, as well as Michael Lilley (Lib Dem), Vix Lowthion (Green) and Sarah Morris (Reform) in July’s General Election. The final candidate list is expected to be confirmed on 8th June. 
