Julian Sturdy, hoping to be re-elected as Conservative MP for York Outer, on what he thinks the election means for York.

This election is about looking ahead and making the decisions about where we see our future. This is just as important on a local level as much as it is on a national level. I have a very positive vision about what I would like to see happen here in York and I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead.

My key local priorities are to improve transport infrastructure, protect our greenbelt and ensure York receives a fair deal when it comes to health and education funding.

York must be best placed to make the most of future economic opportunities and improving our road network must be placed firmly at the top of the agenda. Securing the best devolution deal is integral to this process as local decision makers are granted meaningful powers.

With the Local Plan coming back onto the agenda I am determined to ensure that the right balance is struck between local housing need and protecting the greenbelt from development. York is a beautiful place to live and we must guarantee it remains that way. We must also ensure that our services address our area’s needs and if re-elected in June I shall continue my campaigns for fairer funding for York’s NHS and local schools.

There has been a spotlight on our region throughout the election campaign with Theresa May campaigning right across Yorkshire and promoting the Conservative plan for the next five years; proposing a rise in the income tax personal allowance to £12,500 by 2020 so hardworking people can keep more of what they earn, and lowering business taxation to encourage companies to create jobs and invest.

Maintaining a strong economy is the only way we can provide the funds to maintain and improve our public services. We are pledging to deliver £8 billion more for the NHS over the next 5 years, and a £4 billion increase in schools funding by 2022. It is very clear that we need the best possible Brexit deal to support our economy and Theresa May is, without doubt, the best person to negotiate with the European Union.

I have very much enjoyed speaking with residents whilst out and about on the campaign trail and it seems that many share my upbeat and positive vision for York Outer. The Conservatives are proposing the only serious and sensible programme for government which I hope the electorate will support.