Occupy Spokesman Stand In London Byelection

An activist from the Occupy movement will stand in a City of London byelection on Thursday in a direct electoral challenge to the way the City is governed.

Bryn Phillips, a writer and community organiser who was a spokesman for protesters who occupied St Paul's cathedral last year, is contesting a byelection for the City of London Corporation, the Square Mile's local authority.

Critics have accused the corporation of using its statutory position to lobby for the financial services industry. Phillips, who is running in Farringdon Within ward, said if elected he would use his position to democratise the ancient traditions, societies and conventions of the City.

"We want to renew the balance of power in the City and then the country at large," he said. "There will be full elections on 13 February next year and Occupy will be fielding a full slate of candidates at that point. We hope today will be just the starting point."

32-year-old Philips, is facing two charges of violent disorder in connection with last year's English riots. He said was an "honest man" who had made a mistake and had handed himself in to the police. He is due to appear in court on 2 August.

The other candidates standing in Thursday's byelection are Trevor Brignall, Mark Clarke, Spencer Marshall.

The result is expected before midnight.

(H)