Rachael Maskell, Labour’s election candidate in York Central, looks at the issues which have taken up most of her time as the constituency’s MP.

It has been an honour to have represented you as the Member of Parliament for York Central over the last two years. York is the most amazing city, full of talent and potential.

In such a short time, we have been through so much together and I have had the pleasure of meeting and working alongside so many inspiring people from every walk of life.

On entering Parliament, I promised to put my constituents first and have at every turn. Politics working together for greater opportunities for all.

I’ve pushed down doors to address the crisis in our NHS, opposed funding cuts to York schools, and made the case for housing to be truly affordable to rent or buy.

I have stood up to Government against the closure of our barracks, and now stand by 156 Nestle workers as they try to save their jobs and York’s chocolate heritage for future generations, while Government fails to step in and instead points loyal workers to the job centre.

None of us will forget the floods over Christmas 2015. I secured more money for the city so that we could defend ourselves in the future and I have continued to support businesses and residents. The amazing community spirit of our city will never be forgotten.

This is why I am so proud to represent you. It is a strong partnership; we work well together. As we go to the polls, I am asking for your support again, so that I can continue to speak up for all York residents, and ensure that our city works for everyone.

Labour has set out a fully costed manifesto that will repair the seven years of cuts to services, stagnation and lack of aspiration from this Tory Government.

Labour’s plan brings such hope to York, addressing widening inequality and setting out a really positive future for us all. We will build the homes York needs, support innovation and ensure fair pay, invest in health and social care, including mental health in York, and ensure everyone has access to free education and lifelong learning.

We will restructure the economy so that we deliver a fairer, more prosperous Britain and secure York’s future with better transport and secure jobs with decent pay, and address issues like poor air quality.

As we look to our future as a nation, Labour will form a new but close relationship with Europe.

This election sets out a clear choice. Let’s continue the journey we have started, and together create a society that works for all with a Labour Government in Westminster and a Labour MP in York.

  • The other York Central candidates have been offered the opportunity to submit a first-person article to The Press.