A short but insightful interview with Councillor Peter Spencer, an Epping Forest District Councillor who is a member of the  Liberal Democrats party.

We all hear about politics daily in the news, and it is a common topic for conversation and controversy, but how many young people know about the people working in local politics? David Cameron, Nick Clegg and Ed Miliband are frequently in the limelight, however there are politicians much closer to home, making an impact locally.

What many young people forget is that politics starts at home; down the road; in your local town hall. I decided to take a look at my own local political activity and came accross Councillor Peter Spencer who was happy to answer my questions.

What does the role of a Councillor involve?

'A councillor’s role is to represent the electorate at meetings of the council and outside bodies. Full   time officers carry out the decisions made by the majority of the councillors.'

What was the reason you decided to get involved in politics/become a Councillor?

'I was interested in building and safeguarding a fair, free and open society which seeks to balance the fundamental values of liberty, equality and community and in which no-one shall be enslaved by poverty, ignorance or conformity.'

How long have you done it and how much has changed since you first began?

'I first joined the young Liberals when I was 18 and became a candidate in the 1980’s. I became a parish councillor and was first elected as a district councillor in 1995. The government at Westminster partly funds the district and county councils and requires them to undertake various services. Sometimes the government asks local councils to do more and sometimes less.  At the beginning of the financial year the council agrees detailed budgets and decides the amount of council tax to be paid by householders.'

What is your profession and do you still work?

'I am a retired accountant and financial adviser.'

 

Cllr Peter Spencer is currently still working as an Epping Forest District Councillor.