Shoreham man calls for 2020 election date change due to VE day clash
It may be four years away, but Neil Coppendale, of Church Green, has noticed that the next election falls on Thursday, May 7, the day before the anniversary of VE day on Friday, May 8 – which marks the end of the Second World War.
The 71-year-old semi-retired writer and broadcaster said VE commemorations should be ‘leading the news’, arguing: “It simply isn’t good enough that this most important anniversary will be overshadowed by the events of the previous day.
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide Ad“It could be said that the freedom to vote in elections was won by the Allies of the Second World War.”
He added that in 2020: “There won’t be many veterans still with us but even if there’s only one, we should take the fullest advantage to thank them one last time.”
On why he started the campaign, Neil said: “I’m in absolute awe of that generation. Their sacrifice, fortitude and bravery stands as an example to us all.”
Last year, Neil set up a petition after discovering that by the beginning of February – just three months before the 70th anniversary of VE day – no celebratory events has been organised.He said his efforts were ‘quite effective’, with many events subsequently being planned.
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide AdNeil believes changing the election date ‘is not as difficult as some people think’, but Tim Loughton, MP for East Worthing and Shoreham, said: “I have written extensively on Mr Coppendale’s behalf to the Defence Secretary but this is highly unlikely to change as it is governed by the Fixed terms Parliament Act and not something that the Government can now change without legislation – which is highly unlikely.”
Yet Neil added: “Even if it’s not successful, it should produce greater awareness.”
Don’t miss out on all the latest breaking news where you live.
Here are four ways you can be sure you’ll be amongst the first to know what’s going on.
1) Make our website your homepage
2) Like our Facebook page
3) Follow us on Twitter
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide Ad4) Register with us by clicking on ‘sign in’ (top right corner). You can then receive our daily newsletter AND add your point of view to stories that you read here.
And do share with your family and friends - so they don’t miss out!
Always the first with your local news.
Be part of it.