PPC Profile: Swatantra Nandanwar

Full Name: Swatantra Dhanraj Nandanwar

Age: Leave it out!

From: Basildon Essex

PPC for: Maldon Essex

Selection Result: A win!

Member of the Labour Party Since: The early 70’s

I was inspired to get into politics because:
I came from a very socialist family; we got the Daily Worker and lived on a London Council housing estate. It was tough growing up – I failed the 11+ and went to Wandsworth Compehensive. I Studied Zoology, Chemistry and Maths at Uni. I would have liked to have been a Marine Biologist but went into teaching instead and quite enjoyed it. Sometime duing my career I found myself out of work for 2 years (that’s Thatcherism). I suddenly re-discovered ‘society’ and became an activist, working as a volunteer, an advisor for the CAB and Victim Support, and went into politics because I wanted to make a difference (ok I know it’s corny but it’s absolutely true!). I got elected onto Essex County Council in ’97, the Police Authority and Basildon Council, virtually all at the same time. So I hope I’ve had some impact on equalities and diversity in Essex and the cause of socialism been advanced.

My main policy interests are:
Domestic Affairs, International Affairs and Consumer Affairs (that’s Business to you! I’m a member of the Cooperative Group Area Committee, the Cooperative Party and a Credit Union).

3 things that should be in the next Labour manifesto:
1 – Re-Nationalisation of Rail
2 – PR and Regional Government
3 – Council House Building

I think people should vote for me because:
I’m sincere, honest and straightforward; believe me it’s true!

AOB:
In my younger days I was quite keen on mountaineering, caving and walking; these days I would probably get claustrophobia. I quite like the arts, music and literature and watching sport. I was into amateur dramatics once, but now prefer gardening.

Apologies to those expecting the LabourList interview today. It will follow tomorrow, with Compass‘ Neal Lawson.