Name: Sachin Patel

Party: Labour

Constituency: Richmond Park and North Kingston

Name one thing you will proactively change in the constituency if you are elected
We have committed to cutting and freezing business rates, one of my main priorities would be focusing on helping small businesses. We have lost numerous small and family businesses across the constituency, which adversely affects the whole community. Barnes is a fantastic example of an area which has a wonderful array of independent businesses, I want to replicate that success across the borough.

What has been your proudest achievement within the constituency in the last three years?
Having the opportunity to speak with so many people, hear about their lives and discuss how politics impacts on their living standards. Encouraging younger voters to be politically engaged has been amazing, I’ve had a fantastic response from young people who’ve told me that meeting me has shown them that there are no barriers to becoming involved in politics.

What sets you apart from your fellow prospective parliamentary candidates?
I grew up here, I live here, and like other young people, I still live with my parents because I can’t afford to move out. I'm a working class person with a normal job. My family and I have experienced the results of the economic squeeze. I’ll make sure the whole constituency is represented not just those at the top.

What has been the most difficult conversation you have had while canvassing?
There is a myth in this area that voting Labour is a waste of a vote. This is not true. Tactical voting does not work. As evidenced by the five years of the coalition. Vote Tory - Get Tory. Vote Liberal - Get Tory. Vote Labour for values of fairness for all - Get Labour.

Why should people in Richmond Park and north Kingston vote for you?
This is one of the wealthiest constituencies in the country, yet thousands of people in this area use foodbanks. I'm an everyday working person who understands the needs of working people, I’m angry at how this government has demonised the poor and vulnerable, and I will work tirelessly to ensure that we have a fairer society.