What do you think the chances of an independent being elected to Westminster are?

[Benjamin Barton for MP]

I'm looking to run in May, and I know I'm probs going to fail, but would people out there vote for an independent, and if not, why not?

http://www.youtube.com/benjaminbartonformp
http://www.twitter.com/bbartonformp

[bfudge]

I think the forthcoming election will see a large increase in the number of independent candidates being elected. If you have some sensible policies related to local problems eg traffic, plus some national issues such as immigration and promise to publish your expenses monthly then you will capitalise on the general mistrust of politicians from the main parties.

Goodluck :-)

[Chocolate Starfish]

so what are your policies Benjy apart from making drinking in the pub on a Friday night and playing dominoes compulsory ?

[Guyzers]

Honestly I'm thinking not that good a chance. I watched your video and i have no idea what your policies are, just that you'll always have the kettle on for your constituents. A vote for me is a vote for you, love it.

[177]

If we Don't vote for a NEW, Independent, Pro-Britain Party, then it is Like saying that We are accepting European Rule and that England is just a Province of the New European Empire because this is What voting for ANY of the LIB/LAB/CON.TRAITORS ALLIANCE PARTY, will mean to Them and later they will say that WE had our Referendum, on Europe, at the Election Box and that if the majority of Britons had not wanted to be absorbed by Europe then we should have voted for the BNP.
A vote for the LIB/LAB/CONS is a Vote for a Traitor who Embraces Corruption.
A vote for A British Independence Party is a Vote FOR FREEDOM and INDEPENDENCE
This is the VITAL voting Question.
.

[The Patriot]

Quite high.

Sorry to say this though, not you.

[Kit Fang]

Firstly, it depends where you stand. Obviously, in a predominantly Labour or Tory seat, you haven't got a hope in hell. In a marginal seat, for example, you are more likely to get a lot of votes, especially if there is a specific local issue you campaign on, that perhaps others are ignoring. Given the recent expenses scandal and so on, independents are likely to be given a lot more thought by voters than in previous elections, so you have more of a chance because of that, as well.

I think two independents were elected at the last election, so it's certainly not impossible. Just get out there, talk to people, explain the benefits of an independent candidate (someone who represents them rather than just follows the party line etc.) and promise to bring up issues that effect the local area/national issues people are angry about like corruption, the EU, etc.

The chances are not huge, but have increased on recent years. Good luck.