Young Independence West Midlands Conference

NTU Student Union bans UKIP society

Nottingham Trent University Student Union has banned Young Independence members from forming a UKIP society in the university.

Despite meeting all the rules for forming the society, the Student Union - a million pound business - has refused permission to set up the society and has so far declined to give a reason. They talk a lot about democracy on their website but the democratic process doesn't apply to UKIP, just the prejudices of the board of the student union.

Guardian in positive UKIP story shocker!

Not only have the Guardian put UKIP on their front page today, they've actually refrained from outright hostility towards the party as well. I had to pinch myself to make sure I wasn't dreaming.

UKIP's youth wing, Young Independence, held its national conference in Birmingham on Saturday and the Guardian was there along with other more salubrious titles. The result is a reasonable article inside the paper and a picture on the front page.

NUS vote to run political campaign against UKIP

The National Union of Students has voted to openly oppose UKIP at its conference.

Jack Duffin, the Chairman of UKIP's youth wing, Young Independence, says he is disappointed because it will alienate the students who are involved with UKIP and call it "bizarre, pathetic posturing". He's not wrong but the NUS is worse than bizarre and pathetic, it is an out-of-touch breeding ground for left wing extremists and Labour politicians.

In February the Telegraph took the NUS to task, describing them as "loony anarchists". The president of the NUS hasn't even been to university and some of the officers aren't even students. The NUS is seen as a stepping stone to becoming a Labour MP and those who cheered the news of Margaret Thatcher's death at their last conference are the ones who will no doubt rise through the ranks quickest.

Like all socialist organisations the NUS doesn't represent its members, it is a platform for left wing extremists that allows Labour to conduct arms-length campaigns of intimidation, violence and vandalism masquerading as grassroots protests.

Thoughts of a Young Independence member: Immigration

After watching the latest episode of BBC Question Time, I really get a feeling of how Ukip foreign policy is still seen by many people: as something very Nationalistic, and possibly leaning towards xenophobia. It's very saddening, particularly because Ukip is the most global party of the lot - seeing prosperity beyond the regulation fuelled shackles of the EU. Admittedly foreign policy is still quite elusive. There is also a sense that Ukip does not appreciate the melting-pot granted by immigrant populations settling in Britain over the past decades; and this sense is false. I want to differentiate between integrated immigrants and incoming immigrants; as well as assemble some picture of foreign policy, or to the least how I see it.

Yes - Britain is a melting-pot, and that's obviously wonderful as the diversity instilled has really driven our economy forwards, especially in terms of small business which our county has always naturally thrived out of; but mass open door immigration, which brings forth unskilled labour, just increases exploitation. And then there are those who don't work and seep out of the benefit system, as well as getting involved with a lot of criminal activity. Basically, if we left the EU we can get some co-operated skilled immigration from English speaking counties, whose people can integrate. How can we embrace such immigration? It's simple; they've been right under our noses all along. The people of the Commonwealth.

Coincidentally, it has been part of Kippers’ tales for a while now for Britain to negotiate free trade agreements with - our true allies - the Commonwealth under a Ukip government, and perhaps we should go further to establish a military alliance; frankly because it's the best way to uphold a global network which defends against redoubling cascades of threats emerging from the world, and Britain cannot afford to keep it up alone in an epoch of slow growth. That also goes for Britain's - the Commonwealth's - investment in the sciences, and there's nothing wrong with saying we want to be a leading science power once again: it's not looking back because we're a miserable bunch; it's common sense. In the meantime, the EU is an utter fiasco - and Britain must start the process of dismantling it by leaving; and pushing the rest of Europe into a far more flexible, freer agreement in an organisation like the European Free Trade Association, where global countries like Switzerland have cherished for their success.

Moreover, what we have seen in migration descending from EU membership and, bluntly, open door immigration in all aspects, are pockets of societies expanding and drifting apart from Society's mainstream course; and consequently we have seen a rocket in crime, extremism and, (gasp!) artificial Labour tribalism in post-Blair immigrant communities. However, when we look at our previous immigration waves, Commonwealth immigration waves in particular, you see something much more stunning: you see a great deal of respect and concern for the nation, therefore why talks should be held with credible representatives of the Commonwealth community, internally and externally, on how to establish an immigration agreement which makes ambitious skilled newcomers excited, as well as the indigenous population. But it would principally be controlled.

As I write, Lord Ashcroft publishes his ‘open letter’ to Nigel Farage on the Daily Mail, which fundamentally regards Ukip supporters “[knowing] the world is more complicated – a vote for UKIP is a vote against the complication.” This is part of the current wave of smearing leading to the local elections of 2013 where Ukip can feasibly win big; but is only true in the aspect of unfolding the glories of the past – not retreating to the past, where our economy has no chance. The party’s admiration of Thatcher only goes as far as admiring her strength in troubled times, but to attempt to regenerate Thatcherism only demolishes our claim that there is no street Ukip can’t build momentum on; mutatis mutandis Ukip attempts to unify a country previously divided by ideology. And the signs are it's succeeding. Besides, Ashcroft's studies show that a large chuck of the party's supporters are in fact traditional Conservative voters; so this further conveys how out of touch the old establishment are, and the best is wished for Ukip's success in every election.

YI Communication Officer candidate withdraws from election

Sam Launder – Young Independence National Elections 2013 – Official Statement.

Last week, I was asked to stand for the role of Communications Officer on the Young Independence Council. I was informed that it was likely the position would be uncontested, and was asked by current members of the Council to stand for the position. It later transpired that Carl Whitwell had already put his name forward for the position, but due to a mix-up with email addresses the Party had not received his nomination.

I have had significant personal matters to attend to since the close of nominations, and have had just 4 hours sleep in the last two days. Personal issues are likely to affect me for the rest of this week, and my ability to campaign is severely limited. My main reason for standing in the first place was to serve the Party and Young Independence and to help out in a role where we had no-one else. As there is another able volunteer for the role, it seems both logical and sensible for me to step aside to allow Carl to do the job. I am confident that he will make an excellent Communications Officer. I therefore write to formally withdraw from the election for the post of Communications Officer.

Finally, I would like to make it clear that I remain fully committed to Rob Comley's campaign for the vital role of YI Chairman. I urge all YI members to cast their minds back just a few short weeks. When Rob Comley took over, it's fair to say that YI was in turmoil. Rob showed am immense amount of courage to take on what was arguably 'the hardest job in youth politics'.

But within weeks, Rob had Young Independence working together. He ensured that YI regional branches were officially approved, acted as a calming influence on YI and developed the YI database. His keen personal interest in helping YI Yorkshire to get back on track was refreshing, and he has almost unanimous support amongst YI members here.

If Rob can do all of this in just a few weeks, I would love to see what he can achieve in a year! If I have any time at all this week to campaign, I would like to spend it ensuring that Rob Comley is elected Chairman of Young Independence. That is far more important to me than my own chances of election as Communications Officer.

None of this is intended as any slight whatsoever against Sean Howlett, and I look forward to seeing Sean at Spring Conference. It's just that Rob has done an amazing job so far as interim Chairman, and he deserves the chance to develop his ideas properly.

STATEMENT ENDS.

Building tangible foundations for Young Independence

I joined Ukip deciphering that it’s more than just a political movement, it’s a social movement. The evidence is clear when you walk into a pub and notice the pub landlord has tossed a cascade of Ukip’s ‘Save the Pub’ beer mats around the pub; do you see the same for Labour, Tory – or Lib-Dem – supporters? No, now those activists only exist in a realm isolated from of the average man or woman, although they may pop by at election period. Ukip is different. And I believe this movement has to reach the youth if we really want to establish ourselves in the social fabric, and I think it is vitally important, as we've seen in currently in Young Independence, young supporters make their own interpretations of Ukip policy or values; enhancing the sense of the yellow, purple and striped tied Youth Kipper which I believe is a crucial beneficiary to the concept of the ‘broad church’ of Ukip, which is a good thing.

Many young people feel naturally attached to what the Party stands for, however I worry that they are rummaging for a local Ukip presence, and Young Independence (if they've ever heard of it), when frankly it should be vice versa. I want to build tangible foundations for YI branches to seep new members - and activists, and of course establish more branches, particularly in constituencies where we do possess YI members willing to do their bit for the party. I am a strong believer in YI branch chairmen getting down and dirty for youth support; where do the youth go in your areas; youth clubs; social events; sixth form, college and university debates etc? My personal interaction with these branches would be key, moreover establishing a network between branches is essential; learning from the tactics of one another is what we really need to get YI together – and to be helping one another in terms of campaigning, transport and events. A relationship should also be established with your local Ukip branch in boosting these factors. I shall email, use social networking or meet branch representatives at party events, so we can share information and ideas.

I am a strong believer in transparency; and I will update YI and the rest of Ukip, with what I do as Grassroots Officer in my blogs or emails, as well as taking into light your personal queries or interests. I will contact EVERYONE on the incoming database; no one will be left out.

                

I have begun drafting plans with former YI Interim Chairman Rob Comley, embracing social networking in the process, to gather a bunch of Ukip supporting sixth formers, college students and university students to discuss why they want to leave the European Union, and why they believe in Ukip – before a camera; fruitful content which can be widely distributed. These - and many more - approaches should be taken to reach the social media capacity of other political youth organisations, such as Young Labour and Conservative Future, which are blatantly losing the argument but currently only have meek opposition.

 We must look beyond university as the majority are elsewhere, and that role of 'beyond' should be naturally carried out by the Grassroots Officer. Ukip’s Libertarian image - with a spice of Lady Britannia's common sense - can’t be amplified by merely the Party Leadership, but youth themselves. Similarly, we need more YI members out on the doorstep rather than older activists who struggle to walk up myriads of stairs; I have witnessed this struggle firsthand leafleting around London. Young Independence needs to be a tangible fighting force, not bluntly just on the internet. That includes activists from all over Great Britain gathering for the greater good.

We must imprint ourselves in the social fabric; YI must defeat concrete jungles and tribal voting through youth networks, and therefore Ukip will surely have a beaming, long term future.

Votes much appreciated!

My manifesto - Alexander Balkan – Candidate for Grassroots Officer of Young Independence.

Proposer: Rob Comley. Seconder: Henry Reilly. Assentors: Jack Duffin, Kelly Gravett, Richard Harrington, Laura Howard, James Lynch, Gareth Shanks, Peter Thurston and Ben Walker.
 

Young Independence and LGBTQ* link arms for the greater good

                 I and my friend Max were staring upon the rushed notes I made in utter confusion - as we stood before Embankment Station. After waddling up Villiers Street for a little while I recognised a path (Craven Passage) which was far less condensed; we were heading for the same bar I, and the YI lot, pranced over to after the YI Christmas Party on the HMS Belfast. I was delighted. However, this time my sleepiness would only kick in much later into the night, hence we were just about to embrace one lively debate - and with its fruitful compromises.

                 As we were heading up to YI-LBGT's booked part of the bar I noticed the organiser's name was displayed as 'Ron Conley'; I wondered who that could possibly be. Immediately, on the second floor Ukip London Chair, David Coburn, dashed for a shake of the hands; we've already worked together in many exhilarated post-2010 campaigns - and of course I introduced Max. The numbers were low as I entered on the clock, but numbers would eventually redouble. There was trouble for many, and YI Chair Rob Comley, in returning from an action day in Eastleigh without being engulfed by delay. Nonetheless, later after he arrived we had a jubilant time reflecting over my previous Blog - his interview as Caretaker Chair.

              After a lengthy catch up with one another , Coburn suddenly launched himself to the other side of the bar. He called for our sincere attention before addressing us. I was reassured when Coburn gave a clear and concise defense as to why Olly Neville was revoked of Chairmanship; it was, quite frankly, about consistency in our external representation by party spokespeople - which Neville’s words contradicted totally. He also rebooted the sense of Libertarianism with a hint of Britannia’s Common Sense; you're not going to get anywhere blabbering about necrophilia. After a debate was proclaimed, it escalated rapidly; though of course maintaining its friendly heart. This ranged from the candidate selection processes efficiency, to the grassroots' confidence in the leadership's PR tactics, to Gay Marriage.

              Each of the LGBT crew possessed different views on the concept of marriage in modern society, but nonetheless, they still embraced one another. We also discussed the progress of Ukip and YI London. The LGBT crew were great to have on board for all of this and I hope they become occasional figures in Ukip London; the event was an obvious morale boost in light of the Ollyshamles. I believe in the Membership. Not too much the leadership in its current state - they should merge more with the membership; reflecting on the parties' yellow, purple and striped roots.

           That can be Ukip's tangible destiny; a People's Party; a Common Sense Party. [[http://www.cambridge-news.co.uk/National-News/Support-for-Ukip-hits-high-of-15-2-3664652.xnf]] This poll is interesting because the three parliamentary parties' ratings are actually unchanged during our increase; it's obvious we have united the Other vote. As Nigel once put it, there isn't a single street Ukip is socially barricaded from, (in my own words).

           Three things I've learnt from that night: take some photos for this blog, prevent 'lightweight' drowsiness and learn how to tie a bow tie - forget clip ons apparently... Additionally, the pianist/ singer was spectacular and the queue was tremendous on our way out; any relation?

An insight into the future of YI

It's now February. A month earlier the notorious Ollyshambles occurred and the Young Independence Council nominated, then Events Officer, Rob Comley to the position of YI Chairmen. Comley later asked me for an interview - it was believed to be the right thing to do leading to the YI Elections in March. So here it is; Bloggers4UKIP interviews YI Caretaker Chair Rob Comley:

Q1. How do you feel taking on such an overwhelming role in Ukip, especially after such chaos?

            It is an absolute honor to look after Young Independence, even if it is for the short time until the annual elections in March. As I have said many times over the past few weeks, it is incredibly important that we all work together until this time, for the best of YI, regardless of whether you see yourself as more libertarian or conservative. This is something I have tried to stress since day one of being asked to take over and it is the message I will be trying to convey until the elections in March.

 Q2. What are your views on Ollyshambles?

            I have spoken to Olly personally over the past few weeks about his plans for the YI council and the direction we were going in during his brief spell as chairman. Myself and him get on rather well and agree on many internal YI council issues and these are the policies I have tried to follow up and complete. It is important that we try to move on from the situation and move forward for the best of the party. I would, however, like to take this just to say on record that I disagree with Olly’s controversial views.

Q3. Do you support the voluntary resignations which have taken place within YI? Have they managed to discuss their concerns with you?

            It was sad to see Gareth Shanks and Allrick Birch resign as Elections Officer and Treasurer, respectively. Myself and Gareth are good friends and I can understand why he was upset. We spoke about his concerns on a number of occasions after I took over and although I tried my best to persuade him to continue, he thought it was best to step down. He has since decided to focus on running for YI Yorkshire chair and I wish him the best of luck. I met with Allrick personally to discuss his resignation, and again, I asked him to continue until March but did stress that he should do what he feels best.

Q4. Why have you appointed Harry Aldridge - the 2011-2012 Chair of the Youth Wing - to the position of Vice-Chair?

            After I was asked to take over as YI Caretaker Chair Harry rang me to offer a helping hand. I deemed it important to have stability within YI and Harry, having the experience as YI Chair himself, seemed like the perfect person to offer this. I asked if he would be willing to come back onto the council until March as my vice and he was very happy to do so. He has been a great help!

Q5. What does the future look like for Young Independence?

             We have just finished putting together a ‘reformation of YI’ document and presented this to Steve Crowther and Will Gilpin during a four hour long meeting – there wasn’t a topic that we didn’t cover regarding YI internally and externally!

Externally, you will see a lot of changes slowly happening to YI over the next 12 months, especially between now and March. In the next elections we are planning on removing the social media officer position, instead combining it with the communication’s officer’s duties, as well as adding a universities officer.

Regional YI branches have been approved and we now have 8 Interim regional chairs – Robin Hunter-Clarke (East Midlands), Daniel Thistlewaite (Easter Counties), Jack Duffin (London), Matt Mackinnon (North West), Oluf Marshall (Scotland), Chris Wood (South East), Reece Warren (South West) and Thomas Hoof (West Midlands), as well as Sam Launder taking care of the Yorkshire region. This means that new members can talk to someone and get involved at a local level, as well as nationally.

We have also listened to what was wanted from our members and we have decided that it is time for a new YI website – this is something we believe to be vital in keeping up with other political youth wings. Getting our message across to university students and young workers equally is also vital and we will be planning an event to get some of these people involved between now and March.

 Internally, we will be putting new rules into place to ensure YI runs smoothly and efficiently as the youth wing of UKIP. We will also be planning the March election to ensure that this goes ahead without any glitches.

Q6. What is your perspective of YIs interjection into universities?

            I believe that working with Universities is an important part of YI. Students currently feel let-down by the current government, especially the Lib-dems. We are now the only major political party with a ‘no-tuition fee’ policy and it is vital that we get this message out there to attract more student voters. We now have four official student societies set up around the country and over twenty more trying to set up. It is important that we continue to work with these groups and I shall be trying to push this up until March, hopefully arranging a University activist’s day with guest speakers. Since I was elected onto the council I have been in the process of writing a ‘how to set up a society’ booklet and I shall be completing this very shortly.

Q7. How about sixth forms, and even the bigger youth picture; e.g. Youth clubs and public events?

             Away from YI I have been setting up a schools and colleges project in my local area, with the intention of making it national. The aim of the ‘MyLife-MyChoice’ project is to get young people between the ages of 15-18 interested in politics and out voting by the time they are 18. I also get the students to make a choice on whether they approve of the European Union. This has been approved by the Bexley chairman, David Coburn NEC and will hopefully start in the next couple of weeks.

Q8. You were elected to the position of Events Officer back in the good old days of November. Do you wish to continue administering events for YI post-March?

            My main focus at this current time is steering YI into the right direction and I have been too busy trying to do this that I have yet to consider my future on the council from March. I don’t actually think I’ve gone to bed earlier than 2 o’clock in the morning since I have taken over! I’ve been told on many occasions by my partner that I need to know when to stop but I am so determined to make YI successful that it has outweighed most things in life recently!

 In the meantime, my first event is on Saturday 9th February where ourselves and UKIP’s LGBTQ* will be having a joint get together at the Charring Cross Players Bar, London from 7.30PM. Everyone is invited and we are lucky enough to have David Coburn addressing members!

Q9. What are your hobbies and why did you join Ukip, in brief?

              I have always had a great interest in politics and history and although I have qualifications in animal welfare, as this was the original political direction I was going towards in life, I decided that party politics was the place I wanted to be.  Away from politics I have an obsession with vintage and ‘Indie’ clothing and you will often find me walking the streets of Brick Lane, as well as a strong passion for music and going to the theatre – so much so that I think I have seen The Woman in Black at the West-end close to ten times now!

I have always voted UKIP at every opportunity and decided it was time to become an official member in the spring of 2012. I remember looking at the 2010 manifesto and agreeing with everything that I read – I automatically fell in love with the policies and haven’t seen anything to change my mind since. I lived in Chelmsford, Essex for a brief spell last year and tried to get involved there as much as I could as a supporter, but on moving back to my family home in Bexley I have been an enthusiast, becoming the Secretary of my branch as well as trying to set up a society at the University of Greenwich where I am now studying a BA in Politics.

Thanks for your time Rob.

Force be with you Commers. Statement from YI Caretaker Chairman Rob Comley...

Statement from YI Caretaker Chairman Rob Comley:

Dear Young Independence Members,

As you will be aware, I have been asked by the NEC to look after YI as a caretaker until we hold our annual elections in March and a new council can be elected.

It is clear to me that events over the past week have caused some frictions in YI. It is also clear to me that some of you feel let down and hurt by certai...n decisions and I empathise with you. In the short period I hold the helm before we elect a new chairman I will work, on your behalf, with the NEC and discuss with them, as well as other members of YI, how exactly we should work within the party. I shall be asking the NEC for a written list of recommendations on how they would improve YI as a political youth wing.

It is an honour to represent YI, even for this short time and I will not let you down. I urge you all to remember that we are fighting for the same cause!

Rob Comley – Caretaker YI Chair

Thoughts of a Young Independence member #1 The Neville Scandal.

An Observer Opinium poll has recently revealed Ukip to be beating the Tories in the North West, (http://politicsuk.eu/archives/12950). I'm not one to boast, (especially after those tiring London elections), but this does not only amplify the increasing momentum of Ukip support, but the sheer enthusiasm for - a Ukip. This already defeats the pinnacle of public enthusiasm for the Lib-Dems, in that epoch when it was ok to blabber on elusive policies - frankly, because it was cool being the political bench warmer. Nonetheless, I'm not digging into pre-2010 politics today.

Bluntly, Young Independence, the, (before all this to the least), rapidly growing Youth Wing of Ukip, is now in limbo after facing a leadership crisis soon after a November by-election. A very upset Olly Neville - and right to be - was revoked of his Chairmanship of YI in an NEC decision. This was followed by the voluntary resignation of Christina Marian Annesley, as Deputy Chair of YI Yorkshire, Gareth Shanks, as YI Elections Officer, and Allrik Birch, as YI Treasurer, in protest to the NEC's decision. A 'decision' made merely because his Libertarian values were a couple steps ahead to that of the NEC.

 The decision was inane; not even deserving 'insane'. He was elected by a landslide majority and had great intentions for YI, as any bloke believing in a future Ukip force should; hence I have started to question the NEC's long-term vision of Ukip. They must comprehend the fact that Ukip actually does have a gleam in the eye which does steadily entice Lady Britannia; something which the Lib-Dems never enjoyed and the Conservatives have lost in the North West.

I don't necessarily agree with Neville. Moreover, I was strongly cognizant of his views on issues such as prostitution and drugs - when I voted for him. Voted for him.

Gay marriage? I wasn't surprised. He's a pure Libertarian; I'm not. Although, I do possess sympathy for the drugs argument, particularly on cannabis reform. But that's the beauty of YI, isn't it? We either have yellow, purple or striped tied YouthKipers working together in harmony in efforts establish ground in the social fabric. Neville was an opportunity to enhance this relationship and get it working on the doorstep.

Nevertheless, I believe in YI - we will find our way, hopefully starting to replicate Ukip's momentum with the youth, already with a redoubling platform in universities and just starting to pierce into the bigger youth picture. A brilliant bunch indeed.

Olly Neville removed as YI Chairman

There is much rumour, outrage and (as you'd expect) blatant lies about the removal of Young Independence interim Chairman, Olly Neville, from his position.

Twitter exploded earlier this evening with rumours that Olly had been removed from his position over his support of gay marriage. UKIP doesn't oppose gay marriage but believes the Tories have got it very wrong because the EU courts will force the church to conduct gay marriage on equality grounds so sacking him on the grounds of supporting gay marriage would be pretty odd.

Press officer, Gawain Towler, issued a clarification on Twitter that the NEC had removed him because of his promotion of non-party policy. Olly responded shortly afterwards with copies of emails from party Chairman, Steve Crowther, confirming that he had been removed because he had strongly promoted gay marriage, stating that David Cameron was right on the subject, at a time when the party was saying that Cameron had it completely wrong and for saying that the EU elections are a sideshow while the party is making much of UKIP's predicted win. This, the NEC apparently believes, is damaging to the party and not appropriate behaviour for the Chairman of Young Independence.

This is being widely reported (mainly by Tory bloggers and lefty haters) as punishment for supporting gay marriage when clearly it isn't. Gay marriage was the policy he went publicly off message on but it was for going too far off message that he has been removed from his position, not his views on the subject which are broadly in line with party policy.

What has happened poses two important questions. Are we really a party that sacks people for disagreeing with the party in public and is his treatment equal to that of, for instance, Winston Mackenzie who is still a party spokesman despite saying gay adoption is akin to child abuse?

The answer to the first question is clearly yes because it's just happened. The jury is still out on whether it was justifiable. The answer to the second question is clearly no because what Winston said was highly offensive and said in the run-up to an important by-election that was being watched by the world's media yet he has kept his job as spokesman on culture and sport and the commonwealth.

If the party intends to discipline officers that stay too far from the party line then so be it but if a line is drawn the officers need to know where it is in advance and the rule needs to be applied fairly and equitably. Olly is well known as a maverick and has spent most of his time in UKIP being completely off-message, surely someone should have thought to set some boundaries when he was appointed Chairman in the first place? Maybe they did. But that's a secondary issue to that of fairness and it's an undeniable fact that Olly has not been given the same lenient "sentence" as Winston  despite Winston's comments being far more damaging to the party.

YI Elections Officer election

We've already brought you election statements for Young Independence Chairman and Events officer and there's one final statement to publish: Gareth Shanks for elections officer.

We asked both Gareth and his opponent, Ross Taylor, to send us a statement for the website.  Unfortunately, only Gareth sent a statement so here it is:

We need to be looking outwards, not inwards, council seats are the seeds which very well might one day create UKIP strong holds!

I have worked with Jonathan Arnott on his PCC campaign, done countless days of leafleting and campaigning, both for UKIP campaigns and for the Doncaster mayoral referendum, furthermore I have organized and will be running a YI election action day for the Rotherham by-election. I believe I have enough experience from within my region of Yorkshire to hold this post as well as more than enough enthusiasm!

Things I will bring to YI if elected:

• Help and motivate YI members to become more involved in elections at every level.
• Concentrate on local elections as these are the key to building up local support for National and EU elections. 
• To give individuals who may not have a local branch the ability to stand for local councils via supplying an election pack containing leaflet designs, advice and support for the election.
• Having a YI regional head in charge of campaigning for that area.

YI Events Officer candidate statements

Not to be sidelined by the battle to be Young Independence chairman, the two candidates for YI events officer tell us why YI members should vote for them ...

Rob Comley says ...

If elected, I will:

• Get as many people from all over the UK involved in YI events as possible, merging the YI gap around the country.
• Have AT LEAST one major event in each third of the country. We all want to see more events, but we need to be realistic. The budget will not let us jump from two major events to six over night!
• Set up an events committee.
• Help set up a National YI conference in 2013.
• Organise a YI weekend away, campaign and training days, and fundraising events.
• Travel across the country to attend events.
• Encourage bonding. Socialising should not just be about politics. We all know what each others views are. It should be about having fun.
• Work with universities to get the hardworking members involved in events, as well as helping them to set up their own.
• Improve advertising of social events.
• Set up a social events newsletter, as well as an events calendar on the UKIP website.
• Work with the LGBT to organise events.

Reece Warren says ...

• Regional Rotation. Give ALL YI members an equal chance of attending events!
• UNITE YI members from across the country!
• Arrange ACCOMMODATION for National Events as well as the event itself in order to give YI members the cheapest, quickest and simplest ways of attending an event!
• Hold at least TWO National Events per calendar year in differing locations!
• To truly represent ALL YI members from all ends of the country, and to truly utilise your ideas for events too!
  
  Vote Reece Warren.
  For A Fresh Approach To YI.

Both candidates have similar ideas - more events, more fun, move around the country.  Rob adds to that with working with university groups and the UKIP LGBT group.  Reece would arrange accommodation for national events.  Both candidates seem to be fairly evenly matched but Rob has the edge on Reece at the moment.

Young Independence elections

Elections for the officers of UKIP's youth wing, Young Independence, are upon us and two posts are being contested - elections officer and chairman.

Ross Taylor and Gareth Shanks are both standing for YI elections officer, an increasingly important role for UKIP thanks to the vital support YI members have been giving to election campaigns all over the country.

But the main event is (naturally) the election of a chairman and the two candidates for that post are Matthew Smith and Olly Neville.

This will be the last YI election I will be eligible to vote in, being officially relegated to the old gits section (35 and above) of the party in January so I'm going to follow this one with some interest, not least because any election involving Olly Neville is bound to be entertaining.

The two candidates for chairman are setting out their stalls at opposite ends of the room - Matthew Smith is pitching himself as "the serious choice" whilst Olly Neville is ... Olly Neville.  Matthew's website is a bit light on content, as is his Facebook page.  Olly's website is pretty comprehensive and his Facebook page is fairly active.  Matthew cites his experience through self-employment and masterminding the target seat campaign as YI elections officer as qualifications for the role of chairman.  Olly says he will stop making gaffes on Twitter and make YI fun to be a part of.

He may be a walking, talking diplomatic incident but Olly is the man with the plan and his campaign is head and shoulders over the competition already.  Matthew may pull something compelling out of the bag when he updates his website with the promised reasons to vote for him but if he doesn't do it quickly he's going to lag even further behind.

Update:
As Mr Shanks just pointed out on Twitter, there's also a contest for events officer that wasn't mentioned in the original email between Reece Warren and Rob Comley.

Young Independence Council Elections 2011

Dear Young Independence,

As you may be aware the annual YI Council elections are taking place shortly, culminating in the result at Spring Conference in Scarborough on Saturday 5th March.

If you are interested in standing please reply to this email, and job descriptions will will be sent to you shortly for the available roles. The available roles are: Chairman, Secretary, Vice Chairman, Membership Officer, Elections Officer and Press Officer. The treasurer position is not up for election due to the fact the bank mandates have only just been resolved with the current reasurer and it to change treasurer would be unecessarily problematic at the moment.

Nominations

If you wish to stand you need:

1) To be a member under the age of 35
2) To be a member of the party for 1 year (2 years if standing for Chairman)
3) To be a member of good standing
4) To obtain 1 Proposer, 1 Seconder, and 8 Assentors. The proposer, seconder and 3 assentors must be other YI members. The remaining 5 assentors can be either YI or ordinary Party members.
4b) Proposers, Seconders and Assentors must be members of 6 months good standing
4c) Any member can propose, second or assent to one candidate per vacancy

Your candidacy will be confirmed following receipt by the Returning Officer at youngindependence@ukip.org of an email with the subject "NOMINATION" listing your valid Proposer, Seconder, and 8 Assentors along with their valid membership numbers. If a member has proposed, seconded or assented for more than one candidate per vacancy then the candidate whose Nomination email was submitted first will remain valid.

Voting

To vote you must be under the age of 35. Email your vote to youngindependence@ukip.org with the subject "VOTE", listing your votes - up to 6 votes, one for each position - along with your valid membership number. Your membership number will be used to confirm the validity of the ballot. All valid ballots will be printed and the count will take place on 5th March after the Spring Conference in Scarborough by an independent Party official.

Timetable

Nominations shall close on Monday 7th February.
Canditates may withdraw up until Friday 11th February
Votes must be cast by 12.00pm Thursday 3rd March

Rules

Candidates may not use offocial Party databases for campaign purposes.
Candidates should conduct their campaigning in a manner that does not bring the Party into disrepute.

If you have any questions please contact me. Otherwise happy campaigning and I look forward to seeing as many of you as possible at Scarborough (tickets still available from www.ukip.org)

Regards,

Harry Aldridge
Secretary, Young Independence

Hello from the new VI - Chairman

It is an honour to be the first elected Chairman of Young Independence. The election, held at the party's Spring Rally, has me now heading YI alongside National Co-ordinator Lisa Duffy at a time of vital importance in this European Election cycle.

Life is hectic; not just with the virtally important Euro Election campaign, but a Uni exam period also to contend with. Yet we must all, as much as possible, pull together and represent UKIP as young people. Under Nigel Farage's leadership, fresh blood has come into the party and I am glad as Chairman of YI to head up the brilliant set of young people we have in the party. We are increasing in number all of the time, with some YI members currently helping at UKIP's Campaign HQ.

Young people working for the party in such large numbers has never happened before. They bring with them enthusiasm, innovation and an ethoes of hard graft. All of these qualities are required to help the party. And, by helping the party, they help us move closer towards getting the UK out of this terrible European Union.

Joining me in Young Independence's Committee is a fantastic group of individuals whom I all know well personally. They will all do YI and UKIP great justice in their roles I am sure. For now, we must all give whatever we can do the campaign. I personally am speaking, when I can, at events all over the country in the forthcoming weeks. A good UKIP showing is essential next month to keep the pressure up on the establishment. I hope that those who are disgusted with the latest MPs expenses scandals lend us their votes on June the 4th. I truly believe that UKIP is different and that we are the anti-sleaze voice. We have had troubles in the past with dodgy individuals, but have dealt with them more ruthlessly than any other party. Let us not forget that it is UKIP alone that wants to rid British taxpayer's of the culture of EU corruption that costs everyone so much money.

That is the message we must get out there in the forthcoming weeks, right up until polling day on June 4th. The British people deserve to know the truth. We are paying £40 million a day to the European Union. In the midst of an economic downturn, now, more than ever, we must champion the fact that we believe that that money should be spent by our government. A government which is directly accountable to its electorate.

See you on the campaign trail. Michael Heaver

Young Independence Elections

Yesterday's spring rally saw the election of six young members to positions in Young Independence, the youth wing of UKIP. Well, I say "youth wing" but I qualify so you don't have to be that young!

Four of the six positions were uncontested and two - Chairman and Press Officer- had multiple candidates. The results are as follows:

• Chairman- Michael Heaver
• Vice Chairman - Yasin Akgun
• Treasurer - Steve Fowler
• Secretary- Harry Aldridge
• Press Officer- Marcus McSorley
• Election Officer-Chris Cassidy

Congratulations to all six and commiserations to the candidates that were unsuccessful. The only surprise was the election of Marcus McSorley who, on account of being out of the country, didn't attend the conference and didn't submit a bio!

New Author & Announcement

We are pleased to announce the newest member of the Bloggers 4 UKIP team - Michael Heaver.

Michael writes his own blog at michaelheaver.co.uk and is a member of Young Independence. We can also exclusively reveal that Michael is planning to stand for election as Chairman of Young Independence at this week's Spring Rally in Exeter.

Click here to contact Michael Heaver.

Young Independence Vacancies

UKIP's youth organisation, Young Independence, is advertising several positions which will be decided by election at the Spring Rally on Sunday.

The posts are only available to members (obviously) and you need to send your nominations to the Young Independence co-ordinator, Lisa Duffy.  A list of vacancies and more information on applying and voting is available on the UKIP members forum.