Stockwell Councillor - Imogen Walker

Imogen Walker

When and why did you first become interested in politics?
I represented the Labour Party in my school’s mock election in 1987. Sadly the nation did not reflect our resounding victory…

What inspired you to become a councillor?
Standing for election seemed like a natural progression after living in Stockwell and becoming involved in my local Labour Party. Of course, standing in such a marginal ward meant that I really had no idea whether I was going to be a councillor or not until after the count.

What’s your greatest fear and your greatest hope?
They’re connected: I hope I’ll justify the faith the residents of Stockwell showed when they voted for me, and of course I fear that outside factors (bureaucracy, budgetary pressures etc) will stop that from happening.

What’s the first thing you would do if you ruled the world for a day?
That doesn’t seem very long. I think it would take me at least three days to sort out the world’s problems.

What’s your favourite film?
It’s not technically a film, but I’ve been watching 24 every spare minute I have (which isn’t very many, admittedly).

What do you consider your greatest political triumph?
I’m very proud to be one of three Labour councillors in Stockwell, and part of Labour’s victory in Lambeth.

What was your most embarrassing moment?
When I’m out knocking on people’s doors, residents do occasionally answer in their underpants. Fortunately people are generally pretty friendly whatever their state of undress.

What is the biggest problem with local government today?
I think we have a lot of work to do in getting people engaged with politics on a local level. Housing, parking and rubbish collection may not be as sexy as some of the national issues but they do make a difference to our lives and we need to make sure our residents are well-informed and motivated to vote.

How would you solve it?
On a local level, there’s no substitute for meeting people and being available for them to talk to.

What one book would you take with you to a desert island?
How to Build a Wooden Boat by David C. McIntosh.

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