We're all feeling the pinch right now. The coalition government cuts are really beginning to bite. The question is, do we just want yet more labour? Here in Manchester we know that the Labour Party is sitting heavy on power but it feels like actually we're all pretty powerless. You just have to look at how few people took part in local elections earlier this year. It's a disaster for our democracy and a disaster for our city. People do want an alternative, people do want a different way of doing things, people do want to have a real say in the politics that surrounds them. The question is, now we're being asked to vote again in this by-election. Well, what's an MP for? What are they supposed to do? For me, it's about representing the people here right here in Manchester Central. It's about a politics that's done with people, not two people. For far too long, it feels like the Labour Party thinks that this city is just there for their kind of beck and poor. It's time for much more inclusive politics. Politics isn't really just about green benches and Westminster. It's actually about the stuff that really makes our part every day life. Our education, our economy, our jobs, our transport, the things that affect all of us. That's why it's vital that you get out there and vote. But that's also why I want to stand. I want to be a real alternative. Let's face it, there's got to be a better way than doing this. There's got to be a way that includes more people in the process. If you're feeling left out, at least I hope I can be a voice for you.