James Morris, friend or foe?
Tuesday, April 28, 2015 at 21:00 Between now and the General Election on May 7 I'm highlighting a series of 'target seats', those where the candidate standing for re-election has supported anti-tobacco policies, and those where a leading candidate is an opponent of excessive lifestyle regulations and policies that infantilise us all. With a few exceptions I'm focussing on marginal or semi-marginal seats.
#24 - Halesowen & Rowley Regis
Another incumbent who won't be missed. Conservative James Morris voted against a relaxation of the smoking ban (2010) and in favour of a ban on smoking in private vehicles with children (2014 and 2015). Completing the set he voted in support of plain packaging (2015). With a record like that don't be surprised if some Tory voters swing to Ukip.
2010 majority: 2,023 (4.6%)
Estimated number of smokers in Halesowen & Rowley Regis: 12,747*
Principal opponent: Labour
Friend or foe: Foe
Target rating: Good
*Based on 20% of the registered electorate in 2010
Note: marginal seats have been defined as those with majorities of 10% or less that require a swing of 5% for the incumbent party to lose.
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