Breaking Manifesto Promises Could Further Undermine Public Trust

Each week, I spend a few hours visiting residents — it’s a valuable opportunity to listen to their concerns and offer support or advice where I can. The conversations are always varied: some people are happy to chat, while others are understandably less eager to engage.

Recently, an older gentleman in West Watford told me, “All politicians are the same. None of you do what you say you’re going to.” Sadly, I know he’s not alone in feeling that way.

Too often, national politicians from all parties have failed to follow through on their promises, and that damages public confidence in politics.

Lately, there’s been widespread discussion about whether the current Labour government will break its manifesto pledge not to raise income tax — particularly since it has already increased employers’ national insurance contributions. While most people recognise that the government’s finances are under strain after years of weak economic growth, breaking such a major election promise could further erode public trust in politics.

When I ran for re-election in 2022, I made a series of commitments — from planting 20,000 trees and securing the rebuilding of Watford General Hospital, to installing a town-wide CCTV network, completing the Colosseum upgrades, and leading a “shop and eat local” campaign. Since then, I’ve worked hard to deliver on these promises.

I completely understand why many people feel cynical about politicians, especially when they see pledges being broken. That’s why I believe it’s crucial to make only realistic promises — and to keep the ones we make. Fulfilling the commitments I made to you is something I take seriously every single day as your mayor.