A senior member of the Conservative Party is facing criticism for selling tickets to constituents who wish to discuss their concerns with him. Matt Vickers, who serves as the deputy party chairman and a shadow Home Office minister, has organized a coffee morning where voters can bring up local issues, but attendees are required to pay £5 each. Critics have slammed this move as unacceptable, arguing that the public should not have to pay to meet their own Member of Parliament (MP).
In an email sent by Vickers’ team to residents in Stockton West, it was stated that the event offers a platform to discuss local matters, raise concerns, or simply have a chat over some refreshments. However, the email also mentioned that tickets are priced at £5 and will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. The funds collected from the two-hour gathering in Kirklevington will be directed to Vickers’ campaign fund, meaning that constituents contributing to the event will essentially be supporting his political activities.
One recipient of the email expressed disappointment, stating that they initially contacted Vickers regarding economic issues caused by the Tory government, only to later receive a demand for payment to engage in dialogue. Labour MP Chris McDonald of Stockton North criticized the pay-to-attend approach, emphasizing that constituents should not be financially gated from communicating with their MP.
Councillor Lisa Evans of Stockton Borough Council also condemned Vickers’ initiative, highlighting the irony of a representative charging residents to interact with them after a previous controversial remark made by another Conservative figure about Stockton. Labour MP Luke Myer echoed similar sentiments, denouncing the coffee morning as a fundraiser disguised as a community engagement event.
In response to the backlash, Vickers defended his actions, clarifying that the coffee morning was an informal gathering for conversation, with the ticket fee aimed at covering refreshment costs. He emphasized his regular availability through surgeries and community engagements, reassuring constituents of various free opportunities to engage with him. Vickers also pointed out that Labour MPs host paid events themselves, citing a local event with a £40 fee, and pledged to maintain his commitment to accessibility and responsiveness to local needs.
