Political
Working Group
Why We Exist
XR is beyond politics. We don’t pick sides politically, but engaging with local, regional and national politics is absolutely essential to achieve our aims. This is what XR Bristol’s Political Working Group is all about: building momentum across the local and regional political spectrum.
Before the General Election in 2019, we hosted six Climate and Ecological Emergency Hustings across Bristol, where over 700 people quizzed their prospective MPs on what they would do to tackle the issues. We also lobbied local politicians to withdraw support for the expansion of Bristol Airport.
We focus on building working relationships and influencing our local authorities, particularly with the Bristol Mayor and Bristol City Council officers working on the climate and ecological emergencies. XR Bristol uses this insight to help inform our strategy and tactics.
What We Do
Ongoing work includes discussing how we can help ensure Bristol City Council’s zero carbon 2030 plans are robust as well as supporting the Stop Ecocide campaign to make ecocide a crime in international law.
We’re planning on putting pressure on Bristol City Council and the West of England Combined Authority regarding the number of new roads in the new joint local transport plan. And we’ve got our work cut out reviewing mayoral candidate manifestos for the upcoming mayoral and councillor elections (taking place in Bristol on 7 May).
Who We Need
We’d especially love to hear from people who have political insight, connections or influence in the Bristol area. We’re always looking for people with time, energy and organisational skills, so if you’re keen to be involved please get in touch!
How you can get involved
Email lobbyingandadvocacy.xrbristol@protonmail.com
When & Where We Meet
🗓 Monday evenings 6pm – 7:45pm