To some it's obvious, to others less so. Why do I support the Labour Party? It's a question I've been asked since 2001, when I first started door knocking when not studying for A Levels. My parents had never been strong Labour supporters and my friends weren't particularly political. However I felt compelled to join Labour in 2001.
The main reason I joined the Labour Party is, quite simply, that I felt Labour values matched my own. I was inspired by the words of Tony Blair, promising sweeping changes to bring about a much fairer society. Since 1997 a lot has been achieved.
The National Minimum Wage (opposed by the Conservatives) has helped millions of people, together with child benefits and tax credits.
The NHS (a 60 year mistake according to Tory Dan Hannan MEP) has seen waiting times cut dramatically, thanks to Labour investment. Cancer patients are now seen within two weeks of their referral.
The opening of over 3,000 Sure Start Centres, has benefited 2.4 million families across the country. Many of these Sure Start Centres are expected to be closed by a Conservative Government.
These are just some of the achievements which could only have been accomplished by a Labour Government.
However it was my time working for Labour MP Sally Keeble, which had the biggest influence over me. I saw how Sally Keeble worked tirelessly for all sections of the community, not simply to win votes but because she cared passionately about improving the lives of her constituents. It's this passion which defines what the Labour Party is truly about, people coming together to bring about a fairer society. Without the Labour Party, there would have been no NHS, no welfare state and no minimum wage.
Despite all of Labour's achievements there is still a lot left to do. Hopefully the good work of our Labour Government will continue after the election. However whether in Government or in opposition, I am proud to be a member of a party which strives to better the lives of every person in society.
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