In Loughborough, the Green Party candidate Matt Sisson has come under fire for defending a convicted murderer. Sisson claimed the killer had a good sense of right and wrong, sparking controversy in the marginal constituency.
The remarks were made during a campaign event, where Sisson argued that the individual's actions were influenced by societal factors. The candidate, a communications officer at the local university, has faced backlash from opponents who question his judgment.
Loughborough is a key battleground in the upcoming election, with Conservative Education Secretary Nicky Morgan defending a slim majority of 3,700. Housing and jobs are major local concerns, with Labour criticising plans for 3,200 new homes on greenfield sites.
UKIP candidate Bill Piper has focused on immigration, claiming it depresses wages and housing affordability. The Liberal Democrats, who previously secured 18% of the vote, now acknowledge losing the protest vote. The Green Party's presence adds a new dynamic to the race.
