Statement from Isle of Wight Council Leader, Cllr Dave Stewart, about the forthcoming election campaign.
“Today (Monday), government guidance takes effect which allows door-to-door campaign activity to take place, including leafleting and canvassing by candidates and political activists ahead of the elections taking place on 6th May.
“Notwithstanding this guidance, the Island Conservatives have taken a decision not to resume door-to-door campaign activity whilst the “Stay at Home” restriction remains in place (until 29th March).
“As I outlined last week, we must all continue to play our part in controlling the spread of the virus. We must not jeopardise our chances of reaching greater freedoms by adjusting our behaviour too early.
“Furthermore, we recognise that many Islanders understandably remain anxious about the virus, and are keen to avoid making or receiving unnecessary contact. It is principally because of this that we (the Island Conservatives) have decided not to resume door-to-door campaigning at the present time. We consider that holding back from starting such activity will not only help minimise the spread of the virus, but will also serve to reassure older and vulnerable residents at a time of continued concern and cautiousness.
“However, government guidance is clear that people can leave home for recreation, as well as exercising outdoors. As such, I fully expect that Conservative councillors and candidates will be “out and about” in their wards – for both recreational and business purposes – and will be able to chat to residents safely, at a distance, in public places. But they will, for now, not be delivering leaflets to people’s properties or knocking on their doors. I will continue to meet residents through Zoom meetings, and I will encourage other councillors and candidates to do the same.
“We will keep this position under review, but as things stand our intention is that Conservative candidates and activists will start leafleting (in a Covid secure manner) on 29th March when “Stay at Home” is due to officially end.
“We are also proposing that – despite the national guidance – Conservative candidates or activists will not knock on doors at any time during the campaign, in order to avoid causing unnecessary anxiety to residents. All Conservative candidates will have contact details on their literature – and voters are welcome to get in touch with them directly, or chat in an public place outdoors (whilst maintaining social distancing).
“In making this statement, we recognise that it will be for other parties and candidates to decide what they consider is appropriate in terms of campaign activity, having regard for the national guidance. However, I would encourage them to join us in taking a cautious approach that takes into account the likely concerns of many households across the Island.”