Liberal Democrats on Course to Strengthen Local Government Position in Eastern England: Duff

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Mon 1st May 2000

In a message to Liberal Democrat candidates in the local elections in Eastern England, Euro-MP Andrew Duff claims that his party is proving to be the popular alternative to both Labour and the Conservatives. Mr Duff commented:

"Where we have had councillors for many years, people know how hard Liberal Democrats work and what a difference we can make. "Where people are disappointed with Labour or fear a return of the Tories, it is the Liberal Democrats who offer a chance for real change in local government.

Mr Duff who has been campaigning across Eastern England, added:

"I am impressed by the dynamic programmes proposed by Liberal Democrat council groups throughout the region - showing ingenuity in face of increasing Whitehall centralisation in spite of the ravages of the Tory years.

"In Brentwood and Three Rivers we are seeking to consolidate our control of the council. While in Bedford, Norwich and Cambridge, we are strongly placed to make advances.

"Radical transport solutions are needed everywhere to cut congestion and to help employment. Liberal Democrats will concentrate on making our towns and cities better places to live so that the countryside is saved from ruin. Our councillors will work to represent their local communities, to build working relations with other parties, and to develop the struggling regional dimension of government in England.

"We can use these local elections, first, to confirm our rejection of the Tories and, second, to send a message to Labour that they must honour their pledges, stick to a reforming programme and put Treasury money where it is most needed.

"Wherever Liberal Democrats are elected across Eastern England, our councillors will be a strong voice for their local communities. They are prepared to work in partnership with others so that Eastern England can realise its potential and become one of the top regions of Europe to live and work."