Carshalton & Wallington: Ken Andrew election Q&A

Q. What are your views on the MPs' expenses issue?

A. The expenses issue has been a disgrace. Even Nick Clegg has admitted: “There are no Angels”. I am shocked by some of the antics of too many MPs who should have known better and who have undermined the work of decent honest parliamentarians. We now have an opportunity to elect a new Parliament with new MPs.

Q. If you had to pick the single biggest issue you will campaign on as MP for the borough, what would that be?

A. St Helier Hospital. I fought alongside the local community in a cross party initiative, backed by the Shadow Health Secretary for the new St Helier. I am proud to have given a cast-iron 100% commitment to a plan that will deliver St Helier as a centre of outstanding healthcare for everyone in the constituency.

Q. What is your biggest regret?

A. Losing this seat last time, needing a switch of just 600 votes. The last five years have shown more than ever that we need a new local MP at Westminster with a stronger voice for our area. We don’t need an MP returned from the last Parliament..

Q. What was your biggest achievement at school/university?

A. My biggest achievement at school was to be captain of both the soccer and cricket teams. My biggest achievement at University was to gain a 1st class honours degree and then a Doctorate.

Q. Do you believe in euthanasia?

A. No.

Q. Have you ever smoked cannabis?

A. Never.

Q. How did you get involved in politics?

A. Having been a Director of two NHS Hospitals, I saw how critical politics was to key issues, like St Helier, that affect all people. I also saw this during a successful career in business. I decided to get involved and do something, rather than just criticise from the sidelines. I want to give something back.

Q. How long have you lived in the borough?

A. 10 years.

Q. Have you ever belonged to another political party?

A. No.

Q. What do you recycle?

A. As much as we can.

Q. If you have one item on a desert island, what would it be any why?

A. A picture of my wife Pamela to let me relive lovely memories

Q. Where would you least like to live in the borough and where would you most like to live in the borough?

A. I live in Wallington and love it but there’s nowhere we wouldn’t live.

Q. What is the borough's best attribute?

A. Its diverse character and proximity to London on the one hand and open country on the other.

Q.Do you agree with abortion or are you pro-life?

A. I’m against abortion except in certain circumstances such as rape.

Q. What's your favourite biscuit?

A. Chocolate digestive.

Q. What happened when you first got drunk and did you learn your lesson?

A. I remember nothing of the incident (plus it was a long time ago!)

Q. What annoys you?

A. The rise in a general lack of respect and commonplace aggressive behaviour.

Q. Do you do the washing up or do you get others to do it?

A.Yes and I help Pamela generally on other household chores

Q. Apart from a house what is the most expensive item you have bought for yourself?

A. A car.

Q. Facebook or Twitter?

A. Neither. I prefer speaking to people directly.