On March 27, I took my son to the election hustings organised by Barnet Mencap. They are a great organisation who work with people with learning difficulties, their carers and families.

We were keen to hear from the candidates and to know how the needs of disabled people were to feature in their campaigns.

There were representatives from most parties – the notable exceptions being the current Conservative MPs Mike Freer and Matthew Offord, who were invited but did not turn up or send anyone in their place, and the Liberal Democrats.

I know that all MPs and candidates are busy people, but hustings events and public debates are important as they help us to make informed choice about who we vote for.

The questions from the floor were thoughtful, wide ranging and sometimes challenging. From transport to support into work; quality of supported living to hate crime; cuts to voluntary sector organisations to human rights. The event was inclusive, and best of all, the voices of people with learning difficulties were central to it.

All of the candidates attending were interesting and engaged, but these events can only be useful if those that represent the Government actually turn up. Did they want to avoid having to defend their record of cuts that have marginalised disabled people and pushed them further to the edges of our society?

Karen Walkden

Etchingham Park Road, Finchley