What people say about Ben

“As a young person and former Labour voter I am very disillusioned with the current government. Ben Gummer and the Conservatives seem to have the right ideas to get the country on the road to economic recovery. I’ll be voting for them.”

Matt Pitcher, Neptune Quay – previously a Labour voter, now voting Conservative

“I'm glad to be in your marginal constituency where my vote will make a difference. I employ 4 people, 2 of whom are over retirement age. So I pay National Insurance for which they receive no benefit - a pure tax on the employer. I won't be offering jobs if there is an increase coming.”

David Jones, small business owner - north Ipswich

“Following our discussions, Ben shows a lot of support for the plight of small businesses in the current economic climate. Small businesses are the back bone of the economy so George Osbourne's announcement that the Conservatives will halt the proposed increase to National Insurance will really help employers protect jobs.”

Mac Khan, Director of Staines & Co Accountants

“Ben is the only candidate to have stood up for Ipswich Hospital over the last few years. He deserves the chance to defend it as our MP.”

Dr Joan Woodley, doctor, Manor Road

“Young people entering the jobs market like myself have been particularly hard hit by Britain’s longest recession on record. We need a change of direction to a party that is serious about creating new employment opportunities for young people. Speaking to Ben, I was impressed with his straight talking and his grasp of the issues affecting young people. As a first time voter my vote is incredibly important to me, I feel confident that in voting for Ben Gummer I will have made the right choice both for Ipswich and myself.”

Nicola Heath, Penshurst Road – first time voter

“As a Lib Dem voter I was guarded initially about supporting Ben and the Conservatives, but I have came to respect his views and the positive way in which he campaigns. I am impressed with the dedication with which he has taken up local issues – such as protecting our post offices and local hospital; I also admire Ben’s capacity to listen to people: a virtue many politicians lack. Ben has shown a genuine passion for things that the Lib Dems are interested in, such as prison reform and the environment. So I am urging people to support Ben at the next General Election, as he is the only way that we can get rid of this worn out government, and I know that in Ben we will gain a very powerful voice in Parliament.”

Dan Thornhill, Woodbridge Road – previous LibDem voter, now voting for Ben

“I know firsthand how standards and discipline in schools could be better. I also know that Ben is passionate about education and I think the Tories have great plans for schools.”

Jay Samant, teacher, Devonshire Road