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Why did you get into politics?
I grew up in Wembley on a council estate in a single-parent family — it was me, my mum and my sister. I felt that the only party that was interested in hearing the voices of people like us was Labour, so I joined straight out of university.
You are taking on Boris Johnson — what’s the secret weapon you’ll use to unseat the PM?
I have the same story as millions of other people in this country, which allows me to connect with them on a level that I don’t think Boris can. My secret weapon is not being a politician.
What is the first thing you’ll do if you get elected?
Sleep. Campaigning is tiring! I’d also want to thank everyone — it’s important for all politicians to recognise that the victory belongs to everyone who voted.
Tell me a secret about your constituency that not many people know?
We have the old Battle of Britain bunker in Uxbridge — which Hillingdon council has turned into an RAF plane museum. But I have heard through the grapevine that there are parties and raves in there, although I’ve never been able to confirm — or been invited.
Are you Leave or Remain?
Remain. I always tell people that the likes of Arron Banks, Nigel Farage and Boris Johnson were all rich the night before and they’ll still be rich the night after Brexit. It’s us — real people — who pay the price.
Do you want to be PM one day?
No! I want to be the MP for Uxbridge and South Ruislip, and that is as far as I can see right now.
Which MPs do you hang out with?
The only MP I’ve ever hung out with is John McDonnell. He’s brilliant. But I don’t really get invited to things with MPs — maybe it’s something I said? Still, if we win I might get a few more invites.
Who inspires you the most?
I had a philosophy teacher at school who steered us away from the negativity in the playground of politics.
What’s the strangest thing a constituent has ever said to you?
A guy once opened the door to me fully naked. Not even socks. He never acknowledged his nudity. I was too uncomfortable to say anything — the dude was naked! I just did the normal doorstep thing: ‘Are there any local issues that you’re concerned about?’ and so on. We spoke for about a minute and a half and I had to leave.
In just three words, why should someone vote for you?
Understanding real people.
