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Merton CIL congratulates all the MPs who have been elected to Parliament in this election, and particularly our local MPs: Siobhain McDonagh was elected MP for the Mitcham and Morden constituency for Labour and Stephen Hammond, representing the Conservative Party, was elected MP for the Wimbledon constituency.

In this newsletter, Deaf and Disabled people and their families, supporters and friends can find out what Parliamentary Candidates say they will do to address issues which matter. We bring you a review of some of the policies from the three main parties, the Conservatives, Labour and Liberal Democrats. And, also hear what candidates from Mitcham & Morden and Wimbledon Constituencies have to say.

Unfortunately both the planned hustings events for Mitcham & Morden constituency and for Wimbledon constituency had to be cancelled. We still want to give people the opportunity to find out candidates' views on the issues which matter to local Disabled people so we sent 5 key questions to candidates.

Due to the tragic events in Manchester, the General Election hustings set to take place at The Holy Trinity Church in Wimbledon from 11:30am on 25th May 2017 will be cancelled. Both the Mitcham & Morden hustings and Wimbledon hustings will not be rescheduled. Both events have been cancelled and will no longer take place.

Today's General Election hustings event, planned for this afternoon (Tuesday 23rd May) has been postponed in light of the appalling events at the Manchester Arena last night.

Merton CIL are delighted to announce that two hustings events have been organised in partnership with Focus-4-1 and Merton Mencap. Local Disabled people, friends, family and supporters can come along and quiz some of the candidates hoping for your vote!

Merton Council has adopted a new Equality and Community Cohesion Strategy 2017-21. Community representatives, including our Merton CIL Members Group, contributed to the development of the strategy, and raised important points about their experience on inequality.

With just 7 weeks notice, a snap election has been called for 8th June 2017.   A snap election by definition means that everything happens quickly. From our experience as a grassroots Deaf and Disabled people’s organisation, we know that a fast pace can exclude Disabled people.

Reda our latest information-packed newsletter - There is so much to update you on!