The importance of face to face debate
Whilst Facebook has its place, it also contributes to a toxic culture of public debate. Social media doesn’t do nuance, length or context. It is not actually anonymous but many wrongly believe that it is.
For that reason, I have been making every effort to hold large public meetings across the South Downs. Just this week past, I have taken the opportunity to join nearly 200 residents in West Chiltington to discuss local concerns and held a meeting in Arundel Town Hall with Sussex Police & Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne and over 100 locals to find a resolution for local anti-social behaviour issues. These sort of events welcome open discussion, honesty and frankness – and are always hosted by an impartial chair for openness.
It is important that elected representatives do not shy away from this sort of public accountability. I do have to be clear: the questions can often be quite challenging! But face to face engagement, rather than Facebook engagement, is one way to rebuild faith in Westminster
democracy.
Our small enterprises – pubs, restaurants, butchers, bakers and shops – are the lifeblood of our rural community. That’s why I was delighted to see a number of South Downs businesses shortlisted for the 2024 Countryside Alliance awards – including Tylers Trust in Barnham, Fittleworth Village Stores, Graffham Village Shop, the Brewhouse Project and the King’s Arms in Arundel. There is clearly immense passion in our communities about these enterprises and I am proud that the determined efforts of dedicated local businessmen and women have been recognised. I have launched a webpage on my website showcasing the nominees in my constituency with a link to vote for your favourite – which can be accessed at www.andrewgriffith.uk/ca2024.
If your top rural enterprise was not featured in the Countryside Alliance’s 2024 awards, please do send me your nomination and I will recognise those who receive the most with one of my own ‘Community Champion’ awards.