Name: Dame Caroline Spelman
Age: 59
Political Party: Conservative
In 50 words why should the people of Meriden vote for you?
With 20 years of experience in Parliament I can help individuals and organisations to solve the problems they face. Having dealt with over 20,000 cases I can demonstrate that whilst I can’t always solve every problem, I will always try.
In 50 words what do you believe is the key issue in the borough you will fight for?
The key issue is the constant pressure for development and especially the construction of HS2. I will fight for mitigation and compensation for those affected but also try to ensure more local people get jobs with this project and ensure that biodiversity loss is compensated for.
How would you do that and how would you find the money?
There is an HS2 Community Fund to help compensate affected communities. I will try to make sure key improvements such as safe road crossings and a haulage route take construction traffic away from settlements are secured.
Brexit negotiations are a key issue for many voters – in 100 words, give us your views on it:
Britain needs a strong hand in the Brexit negotiations. This is a key issue and people feel strongly on both sides of the argument. I supported the Remain campaign but have been clear that the referendum result must be respected and I am committed to making a success of Brexit. The negotiations will not be easy or straightforward but Theresa May has published a robust negotiating strategy, setting out a clear plan to control immigration, protect worker’s rights, guarantee further economic security and enable the UK to strike new trade deals in the interest of the British people.
What are your views on the state of the healthcare in the borough and what would you do to change it if you believe it needs changing?
The Heart of England NHS Foundation Trust which serves our borough is improving following the mentoring of the University of Birmingham Hospitals Trust. We are well served by GPs who I have worked with to secure 24 hour doctor cover at the Urgent Care centre in Solihull and, together with the Prime Minister, Theresa May, I will work to prioritise and improve Mental Health Care in our borough.
What is your favourite hobby/interest?
Singing with the Parliament Choir.
What would be your ideal way to spend a day?
At a sporting event with my family.
Favourite Holiday Destination?
Scotland at New Year.
Favourite memory in life?
My wedding day, 30 years ago.
Favourite Film?
Chariots of Fire.
Favourite Television Show?
Call the Midwife.
Favourite Book?
Book of Psalms.
What is your greatest strength of weakness?
Greatest strength is stamina and weakness is taking on too much.
Top five dinner guests – alive or dead – and not including the leaders of your political party!?
Miranda Hart, Michael McIntyre, Lenny Henry, John Bishop and Victoria Wood.
Who is the person/s you most admire in life – not including the leader of your political party
The Queen.
What is the most embarrassing moment in your life?
Being mistaken for Julie Andrews and being asked to sing.
How would you like to be remembered?
As a good constituency MP.
For a million pounds would you join one of your rival political parties?
I could not be tempted to join another party for money.
How about for ten million pounds?
See above.
What was the last lie you told?
I try to be honest but if the truth is painful I try to make it easier to hear.
