The UK General Election is only days away now.

And ahead of polling day on Thursday, July 4, we have been asking candidates for the local seat to set out their views on a range of issues.

This week, with the big day so close, we have had candidates respond as to why you should vote for them later this week.

ALAN BROWN (SNP)

As the SNP candidate for Kilmarnock and Loudoun, I am dedicated to building on the work my team and I have accomplished since my election in 2015. My office has handled over 20,000 cases, demonstrating our commitment to serving the community. In Parliament, I have spoken over 1,200 times and submitted more than 1,900 Written Parliamentary Questions, consistently advocating for our constituency.

I have always worked tirelessly for the constituency, and this dedication is reflected in my actions and achievements. As your MP, I will continue to fight for justice for the 6,500 WASPI women in our area, an issue that neither Labour nor Tory candidates can or have committed to. The women leading this campaign recognise my unwavering support for them and the other 3.5 million affected women across the UK.

Furthermore, I will persist in combating the Westminster-driven cost-of-living crisis and opposing austerity measures and service cuts imposed by both Tory and Labour parties.

The SNP is the only party committed to protecting our NHS, as it is not just the Tories who are open to privatising our health service. Labour's Shadow Health Secretary, Wes Streeting, has made clear what Labour's plans are for our NHS. My priority is to ensure that Kilmarnock and Loudoun's voice is heard and respected at Westminster.

I am committed to standing up for our community and believe my track record proves this.

LILLIAN JONES (LABOUR)

I will bring my core values to the role of MP if you choose me as the next member of  parliament to serve you the people of Kilmarnock and Loudoun. Compassion, honesty, integrity and decency combined with a passion and desire to help improve people’s lives.

I care about people and this community. I am born to serve and I have been a proud public servant for a combined 34 years between my roles as local councillor and NHS employee. Respect and integrity are central to my core principles. I am not a career politician. I am proud working class and will not forget my roots.

The pandemic has had a huge impact on everyone’s lives - I know because I have walked every step of the way supporting families. Now is the time for change for economic growth with a real emphasis on tackling cost of living crisis caused by the Tories disasterous mini budget. My focus will be on rebuilding our communities sharing my sincere belief that our best days are ahead of us by ensuring our children and young people have the opportunities they deserve.

Whilst others will ask you to be part of a protest vote I offer you the opportunity to choose an MP who will be part of government and will lobby day and night for investment putting Kilmarnock and Loudoun on the Westminster map. Vote Scottish Labour.

BEX GLEN (GREENS)

I come from an ordinary background; I'm an Ayrshire girl through and through, born and raised in Ardrossan, and currently living in Dreghorn.

Many of us face life events that temporarily or permanently affect our ability to work—whether it’s bereavement, health difficulties, caregiving for a loved one, or lack of childcare.

I've experienced similar hardships: grief and loss, exploitative work environments, long-term mental health issues, surviving domestic abuse, and transitioning from full-time work to relying on benefits. I know how cruel the system can be, and I’m grateful to have had family support during my toughest times. Many are not as fortunate and find themselves trapped in debt through no fault of their own.

Our society must adapt to the ups and downs of life. That’s why the Scottish Greens advocate for Universal Basic Income - ensuring everyone has enough to live on, regardless of their circumstances. People would have more money in their pockets to spend into the economy and boost local businesses.

The climate emergency is the greatest crisis humanity faces, affecting agriculture, supply chains, and ecosystems, and causing mass refugee crises. Whether elected or not, I am committed to fighting the climate crisis. I support litter-picking groups across Ayrshire and am an active campaigner against the Oldhall Incinerator in Irvine.

We may not win this time around; but I am determined to build a foundation of support for the Scottish Greens in Ayrshire. I believe we cut to the heart of the real problems facing everyday people, and we are the only party that is serious about the radical changes we need to make in the face of the climate crisis.

Vote like our future depends on it; vote Scottish Greens.

The full list of candidates standing in Kilmarnock and Loudoun is...

  • Alan Brown - SNP
  • Lillian Jones - Labour
  • Jordan Cowie - Conservatives
  • Bex Glen - Greens
  • William Thomson - Reform
  • Ed Thornley - Liberal Democrats 
  • Stephen McNamara - Independent