University of Bradford hosts Mayoral candidates

The introduction of a West Yorkshire Mayor will have significant impact in West Yorkshire. They will be a figurehead for the region and have a range of powers as part of the devolution of the region to bring greater influence within Government at national level, including on economic recovery, the power to shape Government policy and access further funding.

Nikki Pierce Academic Registrar (Director of Student and Academic Services) said: “The University of Bradford has always had a strong link with local politics, hosting previous hustings and a polling station on campus, as well as a pioneering Politics department. We believe it is important that students are given a voice and an opportunity to hear from the candidates on issues that could affect them and their families.

“The event will be live-streamed so open to not only students from across West Yorkshire, but also members of the community. Through this event we want to give as many people as possible the opportunity to hear from the candidates to support their decision when voting takes place on Thursday 6 May 2021.”

The University and Students’ Union will host the hustings for the West Yorkshire Mayoral Election Candidates on Wednesday April 28, 5.30-7pm. The Chair of the Students Union Council Jona Schmidt will host, alongside Vice-Chancellor Professor Shirley Congdon.

It is hoped that students from across West Yorkshire will attend as well as members of the community from across the region. Attendees will receive a zoom joining link once they have registered for the free event.

Invited candidates include:

• Tracy Brabin, Labour - Confirmed
• Bob Buxton, Yorkshire Party - Confirmed
• Andrew Cooper, Green Party - Confirmed
• Stewart Golton, Liberal Democrat - Confirmed
• Matt Robinson, Conservative - Confirmed
• Therese Hirst, English Democrats - Invited
• Waj Ali, Reform UK – Invited