Fireside chat: Henry Smith (Reform) & Stephen Pritchard (Labour)

Send us Fan MailFireside Chat: Henry Smith and Stephen Pritchard - Local Elections are back on!People, Politics & PowerWhat really drives a politician to switch parties? Do local elections still matter to the communities they’re meant to serve? And who actually holds the power when it comes to decisions that affect your day-to-day life?In this fascinating fireside chat, recorded a few hours before the Government abandons plans to delay 30 council elections, we bring together two voices from different sides of the political spectrum:Henry Smith – former Conservative MP for Crawley and ex-Leader of West Sussex County Council, who made headlines with his move to Reform UK.Stephen Pritchard – Labour candidate for Maidenbower, current councillor for Three Bridges, train driver of 20 years, and volunteer McKenzie Friend supporting people through the family court system.Together, they unpack the realities behind local and national politics in a refreshingly open, grounded conversation. Henry reflects on his journey through frontline politics and the personal motivations behind his decision to leave the Conservatives, while Stephen demystifies how Unitary Authorities actually work—cutting through the jargon to explain what's changing when and who’s responsible for what.We also tackle the bigger questions people are asking in Sussex & Surrey:Do communities still have faith in local elections—and do they genuinely change anything? Why were the May local elections proposed to be postponed or cancelled? And what happens when youth centres close, healthcare struggles under pressure, and community spirit starts to fray?Honest, thoughtful, and rooted in real lived experience, this episode goes beyond party lines to explore what leadership, accountability, and community really mean in 2026.Featuring Henry Smith, Stephen Pritchard and the wider Roundtable; Jacq Inwood, Maureen Jones, Aga Es, Iqbal Khan and Georgie. Hosted by Clive Hilton. Our thanks to The Prince of Wales, Reigate for their hospitality. Please click on 'Send a text' above & join our Facebook group to share your perspective and suggestions for future topics - Thank you for your interest! Clive.