AN extra guest joined the NWCCA Shadow Executive Council when it met via Zoom to elect key officers as part of the 'vesting' process ahead of the transfer of constituency boundaries.
The council welcomed Tim Green, a student who is spending the summer as an intern with the Party's area management council. He was there to observe on his first day working alongside area chairman Douglas Hansen-Luke (pictured left), preparing for an upcoming by-election in Mid-Bedfordshire. As part of his area role, Douglas was acting as independent chairman of the Shadow Executive Council and had invited Tim to participate.
A member of Oxford University Conservative Association (OUCA), Tim (aged 20) will soon be starting his third year studying Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE), a common degree choice for many who feel drawn to a political career.
Association secretary Judith caught-up with Tim afterwards and asked how he first became interested in politics. "It was being given a radio for my 13th birthday that first got me interested," he said. "I listened every day and found a current affairs programme called The World Tonight on Radio 4; I found it fascinating, offering analysis and in-depth discussion covering local and global issues. Over time, hearing many views, I was drawn more to Conservative ideals, values and policies which seem to me, have served us well for many years."
Growing up, his views were reinforced seeing many of his generation jump onto whatever bandwagon might be currently on trend. "I like to decide for myself, from an informed position, rather than being influenced by others," he said.
With that in mind, Tim has previously interned for the Institute of Economic Affairs and for Alun Cairns MP. He is active in the Oxford Union where he enjoys taking part in debates, and had a spell as communications director for the OUCA.
NWCCA chairman Graham Bull said it was pleasing to see younger people taking an active interest in politics. "The Party struggles to attract younger people and it is encouraging to see there are those, like Tim, from a non-political background, forming their own opinions often against peer pressure. We wish him well as he completes his internship campaigning in Mid-Bedfordshire and returns to Oxford to complete his degree next term."
Area chairman Douglas said Tim's contribution had made a real difference to the area team. "Here in Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire we, and our associations, are always willing to consider an internship and would encourage applications from anyone interested in learning more about politics," he added.
