Kevin was recently asked by the People's Republic of South Devon to answer their Quick Candidates Quiz, he copies his answers below:
What's your background?
Born in Plymouth, My Father was a Painter\Labourer in Devonport Dockyard and my Mother was a Teaching Assistant. Studied Law at Warwick University and worked a range of jobs from van driver, food factory operative and barman to help fund my studies. I spent 12 years as a Councillor in the Midlands before returning to Devon. I am now living in Abbey Road, Torquay and am a member of the Steering Group of the Torquay Town Centre Community Partnership.
What got you into politics?
I have always had an interest in current affairs and how politics makes a difference to people’s daily lives. I therefore felt drawn to get involved myself as I dislike those who just stand on the side-lines and complain or say they could do better, yet do nothing more than that.
Why are you in the party you're in (or not in, if you're an independent)?
As a believer in free enterprise, people enjoying the fruits of their own labour and promoting aspiration, the Conservative Party was the natural choice. This is despite my family background (Dad has been a member of Unite for over 40 years) more indicating a preference to Labour, although during the Blair years they seemed not very far from where I am politically.
UKIP does not appeal at all and I have always seen the Liberal Democrats as nothing more than a political version of a franchise operation, pretending to be left wing in some seats right wing in others depending on who they are talking to.
Why do you want to be elected?
The bay faces a range of challenges from too many not earning a living wage, to more people on unemployment benefit in Torquay and Paignton than our two neighbouring constituencies combined. A fresh approach, based on a clear plan of action for our bay, our region and our nation is what I want to deliver if successful.
And why you - what's your own political 'USP' (unique selling point/proposition)?
I am a blue collar Conservative whose family worked hard to buy their own home and put me through university. This gives me the drive to help others achieve their aspirations and has driven my positive campaign to make a difference, not just base my offer on scare stories about my opponents.
Finally, where can we follow what you're up to, and keep up to date with your campaign?
I run a weekly newsletter via e-mail which you can receive by sending an e-mail to kevin@kevinjfoster.com with “subscribe” in the subject box and you can also visit my website www.kevinjfoster.com I have a page on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/KevinforTorbay and you can follow me on twitter @kevin_j_foster
You can read all the candidates responses on the PRSD website by clicking here.