Biography

Leigh Higgins is a local businessman who has lived in the region all his life. He is a highly motivated individual who has organised many community projects including the annual local Jubilee Event. He also helped set up three call-centres that take donations for UK Comic Relief.

Main Issues

Defence

I feel closing all the military hospitals is wrong, and we should ensure that injured personnel are offered the best treatment for physical wounds but crucially the mental scars to return them back to normal life. Injury compensation limits, provided by the country, should be raised to reflect the debt of gratitude along with reflecting the impact it has on families and loved ones.

Economy

I believe the National Insurance rise is wrong and would campaign that this is not implemented. It’s wrong for business, wrong for workers and wrong for Government.

Rural Affairs (Hunting with Dogs Act)

I am personally neutral on repealing the Hunting with Dogs Act, but I understand that constituents want a debate. I also feel that villages should have more say in housing development in their community. 

Education

Education must be protected and we need to invest in schools and the next generation. I understand that central Government funding per pupil in Leicestershire is well below the nation average. This needs to change.

Local Issues

- I am against the close of RAF Cottesmore

- Melton suffers from little coverage of a decent hospital for any real A&E treatment.  The maternity hospital is also touted for closure.  I would fight for better health care provision in the Constituency.

- I believe we must encourage wealth creation within the area of Rutland and Melton. This is a low wage economy and through good education, better roads and infrastructure and supporting an environment for business to flourish will we make a prosperous area for all.

- Leicestershire is in the position of receiving less funding for fighting crime from Central Government.  I would fight to change this.