This is my manifesto for working within the current structures of local government and the European Union. For my ideological manifesto under development, click this link.
The Economy and the Public Sector
I am studying towards a Master of Economic and Social Science (MScEcon). I am fully aware of how public sector economics works, having published on the subject since 2003.
Modernising and Improving the Quality of our Public Services
I believe in transforming public services through more effective collaborative working. I believe we need to build the capacity of public service sectors to deliver higher quality services. I think a public service is one that members of the public have a stake in and shouldn’t have to be controlled by the State.
Building the Knowledge Economy
I will continue to contribute to the research and development of innovative technology. By 2013 I aim to have launched a patent pending mobile phone application for the over 30,000 people in Wales who have difficulty understanding others’ emotions.
Jonathan will continue to call for the building of dedicated computer centres accessible by all parts of the localities they serve, from school to university students, and amateur photography groups to professional graphic designers.
Improving Business Competitiveness
I will encourage greater entrepreneurship from all parts of the community. I believe no ones idea should be talked down because the government didn’t think of it and would support greater business financing for social enterprises. I believe that we need to develop a strategic infrastructure for the modern economy, and believes this should include not only businesses, but schools as well.
Transport and the Environment
Jonathan has been a member of the Institute for Environmental Management and Assessment and is a past member of the Institute for Electrical and Electronics Engineer’s Power and Energy Society.
Sustainable Transport
I believes there needs to be a strategic infrastructure for transport in Wales. I believe you should be able to get on one bus in Swansea and end up in Llanharry for example by only buying one ticket. He will continue to call for the technology used in concessionary bus passes to be extended to all citizens in Wales to create a system like the Oyster Card in London.
Creating an Attractive Business Environment
I believe it is essential to invest in new energy programmes in order support a growing economy. He doesn’t believe in the creation of any new gas-fired power stations, which are dependent on limited fuel sources from abroad. I doe, however, believe there need to be more nuclear and carbon-capture coal power stations. I believe that by tackling environmental opportunities and risks we will be able to create sustainable economic growth.
Building Sustainable Communities
I believe there needs to be greater physical regeneration, including town centre renewal. I will continue to put community economic development at the heart of his social entrepreneurship.
Education and Employment
I hold an MSc in E-Learning and has set up businesses creating several new jobs and training schemes, so knows a thing or two about education and employment.
Supplying Young People with Skills for Learning and Future
I will support schemes that tackle under achievement and raise skills and aspirations. He believes the best ideas to do this come from communities and not government.
Increasing Employment and Tackling Economic Inactivity
I believe in helping people into sustainable employment as well as helping people remain in work whatever difficulties they face in their life.
Improving Skills Levels and the Adaptability of the Workforce
I believe in raising the skills base of the workforce and supporting progression in employment through basic and intermediate level skills. I believe that we need to develop skills for the Knowledge Economy, including higher level skills and systems for workforce development.
Promoting Equality in Employment
I believe everyone should be entitled to rewarding work whatever their background. He believes in equal pay for equal work based on qualifications and experience rather than gender or other background. People should, as the Welsh Bard has allowed, be able to achieve greatness, even if their day job has low responsibility, such as a road sweeper.