Name: Tania Mathias

Party: Conservatives

Constituency: Twickenham

Name one thing you will proactively change in the constituency if you are elected.

I will proactively endeavour to improve our rail services and rail stations. This includes petitioning for Crossrail 2 extension to come to Twickenham, which will shorten travel times into central London, encourage further use of public transport and provide economic benefit to the area. I will also seek to empower local communities who wish to be involved in station improvements.

What has been your proudest achievement within the constituency in the last three years?

One of the achievements I am proud of is my involvement in the upgrading of a dementia day care centre for the borough. There was opposition to the change in the location of the service but I am proud that the transition for people using the service was smooth, and the facilities were greatly improved.

What sets you apart from your fellow prospective parliamentary candidates?

I work as an NHS doctor and have worked as a refugee worker and peacekeeper for the United Nations for two years in the Gaza Strip. I am also a local councillor so I have experience in helping people at local or international level and I believe that my experience and skills will be valuable as an MP for Twickenham.

What has been the most difficult conversation you have had while canvassing?

The most difficult conversation has been with the person who doesn't want to vote and who doesn't think their vote will count. It's hard for me because in my work abroad I have seen people lay down their lives for the right to vote. I can only say "I'm sorry you're not going to vote".

Why should people in Twickenham vote for you?

I am a local resident who wants to see improvements in the quality of our lives and environment including lower taxes, no new taxes on family homes; better rail services; no Heathrow expansion; good schools; protection of Freedom Pass; a rise in the Basic State Pension and continuation of above inflation spending on the NHS and seven-day access to GPs.