POLITICS was described as "broken" by one of the Salisbury candidates at the city's first hustings yesterday.

In the lead up to the general election a series of hustings have started, and the first one held at St Thomas's Church saw Salisbury candidates answering questions surrounding Brexit, climate change, the trustworthiness of politicians, and what their priorities would be if elected.

A theme that had the most discussion was the vision each candidate had for Salisbury by 2030.

READ MORE: General Election 2019: Meet the candidates for Salisbury

The Green Party's Rick Page started this discussion by pledging for a "de-carbonised Salisbury", and suggested launching a peoples' hub in the former British Home Stores to "bring people together".

Mr Page also said he would be willing to increase his taxes if it meant less food banks and more support for the homeless.

This was followed by Labour's candidate Tom Corbin, who was busy scribbling down a list of his plans.

"Well our main policy is obviously to spend a bit of money so I thought I'd just spend a little bit more time on this," he joked.

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His vision for Salisbury included introducing a new post office to the city, more pedestrianised areas and free public transport for anyone under 25-years-old.

He added: "There is a lot we can do for the city to transform our lives and we have to be prepared for change to do that. We have to work towards a green economy and I think the Labour policy for that is fantastic."

Independent candidate King Arthur Pendragon said more locally produced food would help the future of Salisbury.

He said: "I'd like to go into a local cafe and experience local food, and that's how Salisbury can improve," which was received with loud applause.

Conservative candidate John Glen, who has held the seat since 2010, said his own challenge has always been to secure higher-quality jobs in the constituency.

"We will borrow to invest in infrastructure and things that make our economy more productive, but we won't borrow for everyday expenses, that is the clear distinction," he added.

Concerning his vision Mr Glen wants to use his experience in the arts to "bring ambition into Salisbury", as well as greening the city by taking inspiration from rural neighbours.

Returning to previous themes, Liberal Democrat candidate Victoria Charleston said Salisbury 2030 is about remaining in the European Union and tackling climate change.

Zero carbon and neutral homes, bringing around 20,000 more teachers into the work force, free childcare services and a clearer focus on mental health services are just some of the areas she would focus on as MP.

"It's about giving a child the best start in life and a fair economy," she added.

The hustings was led by the Bishop of Salisbury, The Right Reverend Nicholas Holtam, and in total more than 70 questions were submitted by the public for consideration.

While overall the other candidates prioritised how they would make the city green, and address 'failings' such as the closure of the police station, UTC and post office, Mr Glen used his final statement to return to his intentions around Brexit.

He said: "This election is about resolving the matter of Brexit - it's actually about delivering what the people asked us to do three years ago.

"It is disgraceful that we are having this election and parliament has failed. But we must get a majority and deliver so we can move on to other things."

The hustings came to a close with Mr Pendragon who said: "Politics is broken. Parliament is totally, spiritually, and morally at a crisis. I do not trust a single politician so don't vote for one, vote for me."