The debate will feature Emma Bushell (Labour), Liz Mearns (Liberal Democrats), Rosie Leather (Green Party), Sara Godwin (Reform UK), Kate Tomlinson (Conservatives), and Helen representing the Trade Unionist and Socialist Coalition (TUSC).
A major local election debate putting women’s voices front and centre is set to take place this week, bringing together female representatives from across the political spectrum to discuss the issues that matter most to Swindon residents.
The debate will feature Emma Bushell (Labour), Liz Mearns (Liberal Democrats), Rosie Leather (Green Party), Sara Godwin (Reform UK), Kate Tomlinson (Conservatives), and Helen representing the Trade Unionist and Socialist Coalition (TUSC).
Broadcast live on Swindon 105 and Swindon Radio, and streamed on Facebook Live, the event will focus firmly on Swindon, challenging candidates on local delivery and priorities rather than national talking points.
Key topics include the future of the Oasis, roads and infrastructure, social care pressures, housing and protection of green spaces, and support for local businesses. Candidates will also be asked about the local impact of wider issues such as migration and the cost of living.
The debate will push beyond policy, asking candidates to demonstrate what they have delivered, where they differ from their national parties, and what their clear priorities are for Swindon through to 2026.
With six candidates representing a broad political spread, the discussion is expected to highlight real differences in approach, experience, and leadership.
It proceeds tonight’s Swindon24 main debate, streaming live on Facebook at 5.30pm, offering voters another opportunity to hear directly from those seeking to lead the town.
The women’s debate will be broadcast live on Swindon 105, Swindon Radio, and online, giving residents the chance to watch and make up their own minds ahead of Thursday.
What is do candidate’s make of these comments :
Danny Kruger said in parliament that women don’t have an absolute right to bodily autonomy, Matt Goodwin wants to tax childless women and thinks young girls should be steered towards having children earlier, and Suella Braverman has pledged that on day one of a Reform government they would repeal the Equality Act – the legislation that protects women from being sacked for being pregnant.