Conservative Chairman Russell Tillson has posted a lengthy missive calling for one ‘final push’ for victory.
Although taking nothing for granted, Cllr Tillson predicts Conservative Candidate Damian Collins ‘will be a first class Member of Parliament’.
Attacking Labour and Liberal Democrats in equal measure, Cllr Tillson accuses ‘both Labour and the Liberal Democrats [of resorting] to advising voters to vote tactically to prevent a majority Conservative government from being elected’ and warns that ‘ a vote for the Liberal Democrats, or any other party could leave Gordon Brown in Downing Street for another five years, with all the damage that would do to our economy and our society.’
Meanwhile the Lib Dems seem a little subdued on their site, carrying a release from Nick Clegg but little in the way of local activism. Flyers looking like a handwritten note from Joanna Lumley endorsing candidate Lynne Beaumont have been dropping through Cheriton letterboxes, and probably in a few other areas too.
The text of the letter has appeared in Lib Dem promotional material 'Kent View' number two.
Whether this will counteract God’s endorsement of David Cameron as splashed across the front page of The Sun remains to be seen.
Showing posts with label Shepway Lib Dems. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Shepway Lib Dems. Show all posts
Wednesday, 5 May 2010
Thursday, 29 April 2010
Differing Views on Debates in Folkestone and Hythe
Conservative and Labour parliamentary candidates have said the leadership debates have had a minimal effect on Shepway voters, while Lib Dems are unsurprisingly buoyed by Leader Nick Clegg’s good showing.
The staging of leadership debates has produced vast amounts of comment and speculation. Mr Clegg appears to have gained the most, although the he had the least to loose from the debates.
Riding high in opinion polls, with some showing the Liberal Democrats more popular than Labour, Mr Clegg regularly appears on the front pages of newspapers, has hit the number one spot in ‘trending’ on Yahoo and is getting exposure that previous Lib Dem leaders could only dream of.
An excellent report in today’s Herald, which carried out a poll of Shepway voters, appears to show a ‘Clegg effect’, although it is not thought to be decisive.
Shepway Lib Dems have remarked on Mr Clegg’s strong performances on their website and are the only local party to publicise the debates on their website, perhaps an indicator of how wary other parties are of Mr Clegg's performances.
Senior Lib Dem Tim Prater stated to FUTS that ‘the Lib Dems are already about 10% up in the polls from the start of the campaign and averaging around 30%. If we got to 38-39% on polling day (which is less of a rise than we've already seen) then we'd be looking not just at a big gain in seats, but Lib Dems as the largest party.
‘And that would include Lynne Beaumont as the next MP for Folkestone and Hythe.
‘Is it going to happen? Don't know. But I do know I've been a Lib Dem Party member and activist for 19 years. Until a fortnight ago, there had been literally 3 or 4 national polls in total in that time that had the Lib Dems as anything but third, and never ONE during a General Election campaign.
‘In the last fortnight, we've been fairly consistently 2nd and within 3-4% of the Tories, and occasionally even ahead of them. I've never seen that before. Something has changed.’
In response to questions from FUTS, Conservative Damian Collins stated; ‘To be honest, we've not seem any real impact from the debates one way or the other.
‘Our campaigning data shows that our support remains at the levels we would hope for it to be, so there doesn't appear to be any evidence that people are switching. We also get a positive response out on the streets.
‘Conservative supporters will often tell us that they think David Cameron did very well and that this wasn't reported strongly enough in the media.
‘There is more scrutiny of Lib Dem 'policy' now as well. I have had people bringing up the issue of keeping trident, and saying they don't agree with the Lib Dem position of getting rid of it.’
The Herald report also has the Conservatives predicting a reduced majority of 9,000 votes, down from almost 12,000. This is put down to Michael Howard’s standing down and the effect of this on voters in the constituency.
Labour Leader Gordon Brown is arguably the least media savvy of the three main leaders, and is the only of the three not to have worked in Public Relations.
Labour Candidate Donald Worsley decried the debates as reducing politics to a ‘Beauty Contest’ but feels the impact will be minimal.
‘Talent shows thankfully do not hold the final sway on the Election outcome. Policies do and now the initial novelty is starting to wear off people on the doorstep and at the Hustings are beginning to ask about policies and seeing through the veneer of presentation.
‘Yes people mention the debates but then when they ask about the Labour Party's policies the debates are very quickly forgotten.’
Labour Leader Gordon Brown is arguably the least media savvy of the three main leaders, is the only of the three not to have worked in public relations and yesterday suffered arguably the worst gaffe of the campaign when he called an elderly voter ‘bigoted.’
Recent polls show the Liberal Democrats moving into second place behind the Conservative party, although the Liberal Democrats forming the next opposition party seems unlikely without reform of the ‘first past the post’ voting system.
The staging of leadership debates has produced vast amounts of comment and speculation. Mr Clegg appears to have gained the most, although the he had the least to loose from the debates.
Riding high in opinion polls, with some showing the Liberal Democrats more popular than Labour, Mr Clegg regularly appears on the front pages of newspapers, has hit the number one spot in ‘trending’ on Yahoo and is getting exposure that previous Lib Dem leaders could only dream of.
An excellent report in today’s Herald, which carried out a poll of Shepway voters, appears to show a ‘Clegg effect’, although it is not thought to be decisive.
Shepway Lib Dems have remarked on Mr Clegg’s strong performances on their website and are the only local party to publicise the debates on their website, perhaps an indicator of how wary other parties are of Mr Clegg's performances.
Senior Lib Dem Tim Prater stated to FUTS that ‘the Lib Dems are already about 10% up in the polls from the start of the campaign and averaging around 30%. If we got to 38-39% on polling day (which is less of a rise than we've already seen) then we'd be looking not just at a big gain in seats, but Lib Dems as the largest party.
‘And that would include Lynne Beaumont as the next MP for Folkestone and Hythe.
‘Is it going to happen? Don't know. But I do know I've been a Lib Dem Party member and activist for 19 years. Until a fortnight ago, there had been literally 3 or 4 national polls in total in that time that had the Lib Dems as anything but third, and never ONE during a General Election campaign.
‘In the last fortnight, we've been fairly consistently 2nd and within 3-4% of the Tories, and occasionally even ahead of them. I've never seen that before. Something has changed.’
In response to questions from FUTS, Conservative Damian Collins stated; ‘To be honest, we've not seem any real impact from the debates one way or the other.
‘Our campaigning data shows that our support remains at the levels we would hope for it to be, so there doesn't appear to be any evidence that people are switching. We also get a positive response out on the streets.
‘Conservative supporters will often tell us that they think David Cameron did very well and that this wasn't reported strongly enough in the media.
‘There is more scrutiny of Lib Dem 'policy' now as well. I have had people bringing up the issue of keeping trident, and saying they don't agree with the Lib Dem position of getting rid of it.’
The Herald report also has the Conservatives predicting a reduced majority of 9,000 votes, down from almost 12,000. This is put down to Michael Howard’s standing down and the effect of this on voters in the constituency.
Labour Leader Gordon Brown is arguably the least media savvy of the three main leaders, and is the only of the three not to have worked in Public Relations.
Labour Candidate Donald Worsley decried the debates as reducing politics to a ‘Beauty Contest’ but feels the impact will be minimal.
‘Talent shows thankfully do not hold the final sway on the Election outcome. Policies do and now the initial novelty is starting to wear off people on the doorstep and at the Hustings are beginning to ask about policies and seeing through the veneer of presentation.
‘Yes people mention the debates but then when they ask about the Labour Party's policies the debates are very quickly forgotten.’
Labour Leader Gordon Brown is arguably the least media savvy of the three main leaders, is the only of the three not to have worked in public relations and yesterday suffered arguably the worst gaffe of the campaign when he called an elderly voter ‘bigoted.’
Recent polls show the Liberal Democrats moving into second place behind the Conservative party, although the Liberal Democrats forming the next opposition party seems unlikely without reform of the ‘first past the post’ voting system.
Tuesday, 13 April 2010
Lib dems Defend 'OK-Style' Leaflet
Senior Shepway Lib Dem Tim Prater has defended Lib Dem promotional material ‘Kent View’.
Containing promotional material about candidate Lynne Beaumont, 'Kent View' edition 2 is currently being delivered to Shepway residents and is appearing in cafes around Folkestone.
A ‘lighthearted’ letter posted on the Hawkinge Gazette website criticises the leaflet for ‘duping’ readers into believing it has been independently produced and asks ‘why can’t these Lib Dems be upfront and put ‘Shepway Lib Dems’ on the front page?’
Printed in the style of a glossy magazine, the Lib Dem logo and contact details are given at the foot of the last page. The editor is Season Prater, wife of Cllr Prater, although her membership of the Lib Dems is not given.
When tackled on the issue Cllr Prater defended the leaflet, stating; ‘The idea of magazines / newspapers has been used by all parties and is intended to present information about candidates, people and policies in a way that they will read, engage with, and feel comfortable with'.
Giving several examples of Conservative parties which do the same (though none from the Shepway Conservatives), Cllr Prater stated ‘in each case, I'm not in any way saying they were wrong to do so.
‘They are trying to get a message across, and not put off those people who might not open a "Labour" or "Conservative" branded leaflet immediately. I have no problem with that.’
This is not the first time the parties have clashed over promotional material. Recently accusations were thrown by both sides over materials produced for a by-election in Hythe.
Containing promotional material about candidate Lynne Beaumont, 'Kent View' edition 2 is currently being delivered to Shepway residents and is appearing in cafes around Folkestone.
A ‘lighthearted’ letter posted on the Hawkinge Gazette website criticises the leaflet for ‘duping’ readers into believing it has been independently produced and asks ‘why can’t these Lib Dems be upfront and put ‘Shepway Lib Dems’ on the front page?’
Printed in the style of a glossy magazine, the Lib Dem logo and contact details are given at the foot of the last page. The editor is Season Prater, wife of Cllr Prater, although her membership of the Lib Dems is not given.
When tackled on the issue Cllr Prater defended the leaflet, stating; ‘The idea of magazines / newspapers has been used by all parties and is intended to present information about candidates, people and policies in a way that they will read, engage with, and feel comfortable with'.
Giving several examples of Conservative parties which do the same (though none from the Shepway Conservatives), Cllr Prater stated ‘in each case, I'm not in any way saying they were wrong to do so.
‘They are trying to get a message across, and not put off those people who might not open a "Labour" or "Conservative" branded leaflet immediately. I have no problem with that.’
This is not the first time the parties have clashed over promotional material. Recently accusations were thrown by both sides over materials produced for a by-election in Hythe.
Tuesday, 6 April 2010
General Election Opening Announcements
Conservative and Lib Dem parties have been quick to react to Gordon Brown’s announcement that the general election will be on May 7.
Conservative Association Chairman Russell Tillson has posted a lengthy article on the Shepway Conservative's website, running to over 1,100 words.
Cllr Tillson urges members to ‘do everything in our power to evict this decomposing muck heap of a government and its failed prime minister’ and asks members to 'dig deep' to ensure Conservative Candidate Damain Collins wins the seat.
Towards the end of the article the Lib Dems are described as ‘the bindweed of politics – once they are allowed to invade territory, they are very hard to displace until people finally realise that empty cans make the most noise.’
The article also shows the Conservatives’ greatest worry - the danger of UKIP splitting the Conservative vote, as happened when Shepway District Leader Conservative Robert Bliss lost his Kent County Council seat to Lib Dem Tim Prater.
Shepway Liberal Democrats have posted a smaller press release, stating ‘Lib Dem Lynne Beaumont is predicted to be the only serious challenger to the Conservatives ... with bookmakers Ladbrokes rating both UKIP and Labour as 100-1 rank outsiders.’
As of April 6, Ladbrokes rate Ms Beaumont as 14/1 with Mr Collins the clear favourite at 1/100.
Ms Beaumont says ‘I've already pledged to be a full time MP for our area with no other paid job, and to accept no second homes expenses if elected: an MP can and should commute from here to Westminster.’
The Liberal Democrats are making the most of Ms Beaumont’s ‘local’ credentials over rival Mr Collins, who previously stood in Northampton North. Ms Beaumont has attacked Mr Collins for being a ‘wannabe MP’. Mr Collins has become involved in local issues and has told FUTS he believes an increase in the Conservative share of the vote is possible.
Funding appears to be a concern for both parties, with appeals made in Cllr Tillson’s article and by several prominent Lib Dems on Twitter. Labour, a distant third, appear to be in turmoil with not enough local members supporting candidate Donald Worsley's attempts to canvass and campaign.
It is unlikely the Conservative majority of over 11,000 votes will be overturned, but with the scandals of recent times reverberating around Westminster neither candidate is taking anything for granted.
Conservative Association Chairman Russell Tillson has posted a lengthy article on the Shepway Conservative's website, running to over 1,100 words.
Cllr Tillson urges members to ‘do everything in our power to evict this decomposing muck heap of a government and its failed prime minister’ and asks members to 'dig deep' to ensure Conservative Candidate Damain Collins wins the seat.
Towards the end of the article the Lib Dems are described as ‘the bindweed of politics – once they are allowed to invade territory, they are very hard to displace until people finally realise that empty cans make the most noise.’
The article also shows the Conservatives’ greatest worry - the danger of UKIP splitting the Conservative vote, as happened when Shepway District Leader Conservative Robert Bliss lost his Kent County Council seat to Lib Dem Tim Prater.
Shepway Liberal Democrats have posted a smaller press release, stating ‘Lib Dem Lynne Beaumont is predicted to be the only serious challenger to the Conservatives ... with bookmakers Ladbrokes rating both UKIP and Labour as 100-1 rank outsiders.’
As of April 6, Ladbrokes rate Ms Beaumont as 14/1 with Mr Collins the clear favourite at 1/100.
Ms Beaumont says ‘I've already pledged to be a full time MP for our area with no other paid job, and to accept no second homes expenses if elected: an MP can and should commute from here to Westminster.’
The Liberal Democrats are making the most of Ms Beaumont’s ‘local’ credentials over rival Mr Collins, who previously stood in Northampton North. Ms Beaumont has attacked Mr Collins for being a ‘wannabe MP’. Mr Collins has become involved in local issues and has told FUTS he believes an increase in the Conservative share of the vote is possible.
Funding appears to be a concern for both parties, with appeals made in Cllr Tillson’s article and by several prominent Lib Dems on Twitter. Labour, a distant third, appear to be in turmoil with not enough local members supporting candidate Donald Worsley's attempts to canvass and campaign.
It is unlikely the Conservative majority of over 11,000 votes will be overturned, but with the scandals of recent times reverberating around Westminster neither candidate is taking anything for granted.
Thursday, 1 April 2010
Sounds of the Underground II
Update on previous post.
From a cursory glance of the cover of the Folkestone Herald while getting lunch it appears that current Folkestone mayor and People First councillor Janet Andrews has supported Lib Dem councillor Tom MacNeice as the next mayor of the town.
People First is a Lib Dem splinter group formed during the much publicised Lib Dem meltdown.
People First leader Brian Copping reportedly protested against her vote as it went against a previous agreement that would have seen Rodica Wheeler become mayor.
Sadly my skimming stopped at this point as I had to pay. If interested look in the Herald, also notable for not leading with a story about peeling tattoos.
From a cursory glance of the cover of the Folkestone Herald while getting lunch it appears that current Folkestone mayor and People First councillor Janet Andrews has supported Lib Dem councillor Tom MacNeice as the next mayor of the town.
People First is a Lib Dem splinter group formed during the much publicised Lib Dem meltdown.
People First leader Brian Copping reportedly protested against her vote as it went against a previous agreement that would have seen Rodica Wheeler become mayor.
Sadly my skimming stopped at this point as I had to pay. If interested look in the Herald, also notable for not leading with a story about peeling tattoos.
Tuesday, 30 March 2010
Web Wars Heating up in Folkestone and Hythe Campaign
A 12 second video of Lib Dem candidate Lynne Beaumont's pledges has been posted on the Lib Dem Website.
In the video, Ms Beamont lists her three pledges as – “no other second homes allowance, I will commute to London like everybody else and no other paid employment.”
The use of ‘new media’, meaning freely accessible sites such as Facebook Twitter and blogs, is a relatively new development in English politics and is leading to some interesting interaction between politicians and voters.
Ms Beaumont’s Conservative rival Damian Collins appears to have the sharpest web presence, with regularly updated pages on Twitter, Facebook and Youtube. His Facebook avatar is a nod to an iconic image of Barak Obama, who used new media to great effect in his campaign for the American presidency.
While these sites help raise candidates’ profiles, they can also allow very public comment and criticism, which becomes more likely as the site or page becomes more popular. Mr Collins appears to be dogged by one persistent commenter, although occasionally others step into defend him.
Ms Beaumont is beginning to post but has yet to achieve Mr Collins’ success - Mr Collins boasts 866 Facebook friends, while Ms Beaumont has 149.
In the video, Ms Beamont lists her three pledges as – “no other second homes allowance, I will commute to London like everybody else and no other paid employment.”
The use of ‘new media’, meaning freely accessible sites such as Facebook Twitter and blogs, is a relatively new development in English politics and is leading to some interesting interaction between politicians and voters.
Ms Beaumont’s Conservative rival Damian Collins appears to have the sharpest web presence, with regularly updated pages on Twitter, Facebook and Youtube. His Facebook avatar is a nod to an iconic image of Barak Obama, who used new media to great effect in his campaign for the American presidency. 
While these sites help raise candidates’ profiles, they can also allow very public comment and criticism, which becomes more likely as the site or page becomes more popular. Mr Collins appears to be dogged by one persistent commenter, although occasionally others step into defend him. Mr Collins background in PR and advertising leads many to tip him to win the new media race although given Shepway’s elderly demographic and the history of the seat it is not clear what effect this will have on the result.
Ms Beaumont is beginning to post but has yet to achieve Mr Collins’ success - Mr Collins boasts 866 Facebook friends, while Ms Beaumont has 149.
Sunday, 28 March 2010
Mixed Response to Budget
Conservative, Lib Dem and Labour politicians in Shepway have criticised the Government’s budget, announced March 24.
Shepway Liberal Democrats posted an article ‘Stealth Income Tax Increase will hit Folkestone and Hythe hard’ which opens with; ‘The 2010 Labour budget has frozen income tax threshold limits, meaning a real terms rise in income taxes on tax payers across Folkestone and Hythe. The Lib Dems had announced plans to take all those earning under £10,000 out of income tax entirely by raising the lower tax threshold.’
The article has a quote from leader Nick Clegg but little about the specific impact on Shepway’s economy and voters.
In a statement on the Shepway Conservatives website parliamentary candidate Damian Collins criticises the budget as offering ‘more of the same debt, taxes, and waste that have got the economy into the terrible mess it’s in.’
Mr Collins then offers opinions specific to Shepway around the changes to taxes on holiday lets, stating; ‘local businesses who offer self catering holiday accommodation could be particularly badly hit, and will lead to higher prices, putting off visitors.’
Shepway Liberal Democrats posted an article ‘Stealth Income Tax Increase will hit Folkestone and Hythe hard’ which opens with; ‘The 2010 Labour budget has frozen income tax threshold limits, meaning a real terms rise in income taxes on tax payers across Folkestone and Hythe. The Lib Dems had announced plans to take all those earning under £10,000 out of income tax entirely by raising the lower tax threshold.’
The article has a quote from leader Nick Clegg but little about the specific impact on Shepway’s economy and voters.
In a statement on the Shepway Conservatives website parliamentary candidate Damian Collins criticises the budget as offering ‘more of the same debt, taxes, and waste that have got the economy into the terrible mess it’s in.’
Mr Collins then offers opinions specific to Shepway around the changes to taxes on holiday lets, stating; ‘local businesses who offer self catering holiday accommodation could be particularly badly hit, and will lead to higher prices, putting off visitors.’
Mr Collins also criticises the 10% tax increase on cider, although his joining of the Kent Cider Company on Facebook was criticised as ‘shameless electioneering.’
Labour Candidate Donald Worsley has also criticised the budget, though he does not think it will lose the election for Labour. Talking to FUTS, Mr Worsley described the budget as ‘Too little, too late – this should have been done a year ago. It will not win the election – neither will it lose it.’
Mr Worsley has past form of disagreeing with Labour Government decisions such as Dungeness C and the failure to hold a referendum on ratification of the Lisbon Treaty, although he has maintained any disagreements with the national party are for the benefit of Shepway.
Thursday, 18 March 2010
Shepway Lib Dems - Dead as a Dodo or Phoenix From the Flames?
Opinion piece for my own amusement - feel free to comment, email, etc.What to make of the Shepway Liberal Democrat party? Their spectacular and widely publicised fall from grace has seen them go from losing a 27 strong majority on the district council to a six councillor rump in a few years.
Disastrous policies, splits, defections and bitter spats have dogged the group. Chewing through PPCs like they were going out of fashion has left slim Liberal hopes of ending Conservative control of the parliamentary seat in tatters.Leader Lynne Beaumont has declined to give figures of how far membership has fallen. Six local councillors come from three families, perhaps a sign of of a seriously limited membership to draw candidates from, with other amid rumours circulating of the membership halving or worse in 3 years.
As if this wasn’t bad enough, at the time of writing several key aspects of Lib Dem policy seem destined to drive them further onto the rocks of Shepway politics. Opposing Dungeness C and Lydd Airport, the Lib Dems are accused of stifling development at a time when the area is crying out for jobs. While Lib Dem claims that their green eco-tourism initiatives will provide jobs are unproven, could they be playing a masterful long game, accepting crushing defeat this year in the hope of making headway in the long run and rising from the fallout of both issues (pun fully intended)?
The Lib Dems are adamantly opposed to Lydd Airport’s expansion. This is a contentious issue, and it is hard to see if any side really has the ‘silent majority’. If it goes ahead it is far from a guaranteed success, with no infrastructure to serve it, a possible third runway at Heathrow not far away and nearby Manston struggling. If more of the Marsh is concreted over for no discernable benefits the Lib Dems will be well positioned to make political headway.
The issue of Dungeness could represent a similar plan. Unlike the airport, it seems the majority of the population would like to see a new power station. No matter how strong this wish nor how doggedly the council fight, it is hard to see any government going back on the decision not to consider Dungeness – the national Conservative site does not return any results for a search of the word ‘Dungeness’ and the wisdom of building a nuclear reactor on a marsh barely above sea level with purported sea level rises is questionable.Therefore, in a similar vain to the Lydd Airport tactic, opposition to the power station now could see short term losses accepted for long term gains.
Politically, the Lib Dems are attacking local Conservatives for not having a plan B. Making ‘Green’ a centrepiece of her campaign, Ms Beaumont has pressed ahead with an ‘Eco-tourism’ initiative. A recent meeting of stakeholders had a somewhat low turnout and there was hostility to the ideas expressed in the room - hardly an impressive start.
However, should the council be unsuccessful in getting the Dungeness decision reversed and the Lydd Airport expansion be a disaster, no doubt the Lib Dems will crow about their Eco-initiatives till the cows come home and make some headway.
Several other factors should be borne in mid. Although a shadow of their former selves, they are hard to ignore.
In Ms Beaumont they have a PPC who is prepared to make it personal, dismissing rival Damian Collins as a ‘wannabe MP’ and highlighting her ‘localness,’ a tactic we can expect more of. Association Chairman Russell Tillson has answered these charges while Mr Collins remains tight-lipped – these may be uncomfortable home truths for the dead cert.
With no other job, Ms Beaumont can pour all her efforts into campaigning. She is unlikely to win, but she is raising the group’s profile ahead of the local elections of 2011.
The Lib Dems also appear to have the upper hand on the Web, with a regularly updated site. Cleverly mixing Lib Dem announcements and community news, the site acts as a newswire, bringing visitors to peruse the Pravda-like articles, which cut out opposition councillors from events and spin defeats into victories in a manner worthy of any AgitProp department.
Lib Dem web guru Tim Prater has said the site is simply about what Liberal Democrats are doing, which is clearly rubbish.
A story on the site about grants awarded to local groups cheerfully opens with the line ‘As a County Councillor, I've had no say in any of these bids or grants, but thought they may be of interest!’ This comes slightly before an announcement of a talk on the Apollo 13 mission (not given by a Lib Dem) and numerous announcements of roadworks (no info on which councillors are out in the road gangs).
In addition to the site, every household in Shepway is receiving fancy, glossy, colourful flyers. Rarely a week goes past without Lib Dem councillors staring angrily from the pages of the local rags. Their twittering is almost constant. All of this gives them a presence that far outweighs their six member minority on the District council.
The key is turning this into votes. There have been some successes. The Lib Dems just about retain control of Folkestone Town Council. Tim Prater now has a seat on the County Council, though a case of something nice should have been sent to UKIP for this – UKIP split the Conservative vote, allowing Mr Prater to squeeze to victory by 11 votes.
Real success, which would be control of the District Council or returning an MP is still some way off. Whether the Liberal Democrat group can increase members and councillors with the current incumbents in charge, or whether history will repeat itself with splits further splits in the groupremains to be seen.
Err...if anyone reads this post-election, I'd like to point out the date and this was written BEFORE the Lib Dems jumped into bed with the Conservative Party. In fairness Ms Beaumont, on a visit back home I noted Ms Beaumont has decried the U-turn on education fees.
Tuesday, 16 March 2010
Conservative Campaign Continuing Smoothly
Conservative Candidate Damian Collins is unconcerned at aggressive Lib Dem leafleting and campaigning in Shepway.
Large numbers of Lib Dem campaign flyers, in which Lib Dem candidate Lynne Beaumont attacks Mr Collins for saying MPs having extra work is ‘fine’ have been delivered across Shepway.
The leaflets repeatedly stress Ms Beaumont’s long ties to the local area, a widely anticipated tactic against Mr Collins, who previously contested the Northampton North seat.
Speaking to FUTS after a meeting addressing Braebourne Lees and Smeeth residents at a public meeting, Mr Collins said;
“I wasn’t surprised by the Lib Dem leaflets.
“We have been out canvassing and are getting a good response. We are hopeful we can build on our share of the vote in this area, but I take nothing for granted and will be working hard in the campaign.”
Mr Collins also said that his recent video had proved to be extremely popular.
“There was a real spike in traffic when the video was posted. We will have more videos, and as the campaign progresses we hope to have one video per day posted online.”
The latest video to be posted by Mr Collins can be seen here. Mr Collins discusses how to support small businesses, touching on local initiatives and Conservative policies.
Large numbers of Lib Dem campaign flyers, in which Lib Dem candidate Lynne Beaumont attacks Mr Collins for saying MPs having extra work is ‘fine’ have been delivered across Shepway.
The leaflets repeatedly stress Ms Beaumont’s long ties to the local area, a widely anticipated tactic against Mr Collins, who previously contested the Northampton North seat.
Speaking to FUTS after a meeting addressing Braebourne Lees and Smeeth residents at a public meeting, Mr Collins said;
“I wasn’t surprised by the Lib Dem leaflets.
“We have been out canvassing and are getting a good response. We are hopeful we can build on our share of the vote in this area, but I take nothing for granted and will be working hard in the campaign.”
Mr Collins also said that his recent video had proved to be extremely popular.
“There was a real spike in traffic when the video was posted. We will have more videos, and as the campaign progresses we hope to have one video per day posted online.”
The latest video to be posted by Mr Collins can be seen here. Mr Collins discusses how to support small businesses, touching on local initiatives and Conservative policies.
Friday, 5 March 2010
Mixed Messages at Lib Dem Eco Tourism Summit
Local interest groups and a small number of residents attended the ‘Eco –Tourism summit’ at the RSPB visitors centre on March 3.
Although only 24 people attended, the meeting was generally thought to be a success with important issues addressed and discussed.
Representatives from the wildlife organisations on the Marsh, the Romney Hythe and Dymchurch Railway, Angling Associations, Shepway Cycle Forum and several Conservative Councillors were among those present.
Many speakers were strongly in favour of the initiative, although sometimes the meeting was a fractious as attendees disagreed on several issues.
Concerns were raised that residents did not want extra tourists visiting the area and the current infrastructure, especially the lack of public toilets, would not be able to cope with an increase in numbers.
Chris Kirkham of Discover Folkestone cautioned against Dungeness becoming ‘tawdry and tacky’ if initiatives were not well managed.
The need to create jobs was repeatedly stressed and caused some of the sharpest exchanges.
Malcom Dyer of Romney Marsh regeneration Partnership said, ‘we have to provide something that will improve the economic wellbeing of the area.’ Conservative Councillor Russell Tillson echoed this point and cautioned that any plan would likely need a ’15 to 20 year timeframe.’
Resident Brian Godfrey raised the strongest concerns that the project would fail. Mr Godfrey criticised the speakers, saying ‘not one of you has talked directly about job creation.’
Lambasting Marsh-based organisations and councils for the lack of communication, Mr Godfrey also raised concerns that charitable organisations were taking over vast swathes of the Marsh and were stifling development and improvement of infrastructure.
Conservative Councillor Carole Waters criticised Cllr Beaumont for ‘sounding naive.’
Speaking after the meeting, Cllr Beaumont admitted that the number of attendees was not as high as hoped, saying several organisations had expressed interest but were unable to send a representative.
Cllr Beaumont accepted the concerns raised but emphasised that an alternative plan was needed for the Marsh given that Dungeness C will not go ahead.
Cllr Tillson, who had previously called plans ‘cloud cuckoo land thinking’ said ‘I fully support any initiative to promote the Marsh,’ and added that he was pleased Ms Beaumont had been alerted to some of the difficulties faced by such projects.
The issue of the Marsh has become a major political issue in the area, and the Eco-tourism summit has so far been a key point in the Liberal Democrat’s green message.
Since the government decision not to consider Dungeness C as a site for new nuclear power station, Conservatives continue to fight for Dungeness C. This divide seems to be gaining in importance and could have a great effect on the national election this year and the District elections in 2011.
Although only 24 people attended, the meeting was generally thought to be a success with important issues addressed and discussed.
Representatives from the wildlife organisations on the Marsh, the Romney Hythe and Dymchurch Railway, Angling Associations, Shepway Cycle Forum and several Conservative Councillors were among those present.
Many speakers were strongly in favour of the initiative, although sometimes the meeting was a fractious as attendees disagreed on several issues.
Concerns were raised that residents did not want extra tourists visiting the area and the current infrastructure, especially the lack of public toilets, would not be able to cope with an increase in numbers.
Chris Kirkham of Discover Folkestone cautioned against Dungeness becoming ‘tawdry and tacky’ if initiatives were not well managed.
The need to create jobs was repeatedly stressed and caused some of the sharpest exchanges.
Malcom Dyer of Romney Marsh regeneration Partnership said, ‘we have to provide something that will improve the economic wellbeing of the area.’ Conservative Councillor Russell Tillson echoed this point and cautioned that any plan would likely need a ’15 to 20 year timeframe.’
Resident Brian Godfrey raised the strongest concerns that the project would fail. Mr Godfrey criticised the speakers, saying ‘not one of you has talked directly about job creation.’
Lambasting Marsh-based organisations and councils for the lack of communication, Mr Godfrey also raised concerns that charitable organisations were taking over vast swathes of the Marsh and were stifling development and improvement of infrastructure.
Conservative Councillor Carole Waters criticised Cllr Beaumont for ‘sounding naive.’
Speaking after the meeting, Cllr Beaumont admitted that the number of attendees was not as high as hoped, saying several organisations had expressed interest but were unable to send a representative.
Cllr Beaumont accepted the concerns raised but emphasised that an alternative plan was needed for the Marsh given that Dungeness C will not go ahead.
Cllr Tillson, who had previously called plans ‘cloud cuckoo land thinking’ said ‘I fully support any initiative to promote the Marsh,’ and added that he was pleased Ms Beaumont had been alerted to some of the difficulties faced by such projects.
The issue of the Marsh has become a major political issue in the area, and the Eco-tourism summit has so far been a key point in the Liberal Democrat’s green message.
Since the government decision not to consider Dungeness C as a site for new nuclear power station, Conservatives continue to fight for Dungeness C. This divide seems to be gaining in importance and could have a great effect on the national election this year and the District elections in 2011.
Thursday, 4 March 2010
Liberals' Airport Anger Greatens* (L.A.A.G.)
The Liberal Democrat group, in an article titled ‘Vote Blue, Go Green, Feel Sick,’ have lambasted the decision to approve expansion of Lydd Airport.
Wondering how much money has been wasted the piece, authored by Lynne Beaumont, slams local and national Conservatives.
‘For many years now, the [Shepway] Conservatives have hidden behind the view that there should be a public enquiry, and this is what they have said to people. They gave their sympathy to people who are going to be affected.
‘People didn't want their sympathy, they wanted their councillors’ support’
‘David Cameron, only 4 days ago said;
"It was you (conservative activists and councillors), who campaigned at local election after local election, under the slogan Vote blue, go green, that have demonstrated our councils are the greenest and the best in Britain, and that we are the new environmental party in Britain, and you should be proud of that.."
‘The Conservatives who voted for Airport expansion last night in Shepway obviously didn't listen to their leader. They have proved once again that they don't care about our environment, and they do what they want to do in Shepway.’
*not great but the best I could do
Wondering how much money has been wasted the piece, authored by Lynne Beaumont, slams local and national Conservatives.
‘For many years now, the [Shepway] Conservatives have hidden behind the view that there should be a public enquiry, and this is what they have said to people. They gave their sympathy to people who are going to be affected.
‘People didn't want their sympathy, they wanted their councillors’ support’
‘David Cameron, only 4 days ago said;
"It was you (conservative activists and councillors), who campaigned at local election after local election, under the slogan Vote blue, go green, that have demonstrated our councils are the greenest and the best in Britain, and that we are the new environmental party in Britain, and you should be proud of that.."
‘The Conservatives who voted for Airport expansion last night in Shepway obviously didn't listen to their leader. They have proved once again that they don't care about our environment, and they do what they want to do in Shepway.’
*not great but the best I could do
Sunday, 28 February 2010
Candidates Clash In Student Fees Debate - What Really Happened?
The two main contenders for the Folkestone and Hythe seat are giving mixed messages about a debate they took part in on the issue of student fees.
The ‘Future of Fees’ debate, organized by student group Canterbury United and held on Feb 23 at Canterbury Christchurch University, featured Liberal Democrat Candidate Lynne Beaumont and Conservative Candidate Damian Collins.
Speaking to FUTS, Ms Beaumont said “Damian had a tough time of it during the debate. He advocated higher fees for better universities, sentiments which did not go down well with the students in the room.”
The Shepway Lib Dem site carries a video of Ms Beaumont addressing the meeting, posted by fellow Shepway Lib Dem Gary Fuller. In the clip Ms Beaumont says she “will do everything I can possibly do to make sure [students don’t leave university in debt]”.
Ms Beaumont references Mr Collins’ address, saying; “Damian talked about paying more for universities that get better results. I think that’s abhorrent. That means the people that can afford to go to places with better results are the only ones who can go there. That is wrong.”
The clip ends with applause for Ms Beaumont. There is no equivalent video of Mr Collins addressing the meeting.
When asked for his comments, Mr Collins stated that Ms Beaumont was ‘misrepresenting’ what he said, but admitted that some issues were ‘contentious’.
In a written response, Mr Collins states; ‘I said students should have more information on fees … and if we had a situation where colleges were charging different amounts they should have to back up why they were charging more, and why they thought it was worth paying.
‘When I said this there wasn't a reaction. Later in the debate Lynne accused me of advocating top universities charging more, which I hadn't.
‘Of course some students want tuition fees scrapped altogether, and that was the most contentious issue in the debate but not even the National Union of Students is advocating this. Their President said at the debate that he didn't think it fair for tuition fees to be paid from general taxation, and students who benefit from higher education should make a contribution towards it.’
Also taking part was Jean Samuel, Labour Candidate for the Canterbury and Whitstable seat. Mr Collins took the place of sitting Conservative MP Julian Brazier and Ms Beaumont took the place of Lib Dem candidate Guy Voizey.
The 2001 census lists 13.2% of the Canterbury population as full-time students, compared with Folkestone and Hythe at 2.2%. The number of full-time students in the Folkestone and Hythe population will have risen with the creation of University Centre Folkestone, but coupled with many graduates leaving the area the student vote is certainly not as strong as in Canterbury.
The ‘Future of Fees’ debate, organized by student group Canterbury United and held on Feb 23 at Canterbury Christchurch University, featured Liberal Democrat Candidate Lynne Beaumont and Conservative Candidate Damian Collins.
Speaking to FUTS, Ms Beaumont said “Damian had a tough time of it during the debate. He advocated higher fees for better universities, sentiments which did not go down well with the students in the room.”
The Shepway Lib Dem site carries a video of Ms Beaumont addressing the meeting, posted by fellow Shepway Lib Dem Gary Fuller. In the clip Ms Beaumont says she “will do everything I can possibly do to make sure [students don’t leave university in debt]”.
Ms Beaumont references Mr Collins’ address, saying; “Damian talked about paying more for universities that get better results. I think that’s abhorrent. That means the people that can afford to go to places with better results are the only ones who can go there. That is wrong.”
The clip ends with applause for Ms Beaumont. There is no equivalent video of Mr Collins addressing the meeting.
When asked for his comments, Mr Collins stated that Ms Beaumont was ‘misrepresenting’ what he said, but admitted that some issues were ‘contentious’.
In a written response, Mr Collins states; ‘I said students should have more information on fees … and if we had a situation where colleges were charging different amounts they should have to back up why they were charging more, and why they thought it was worth paying.
‘When I said this there wasn't a reaction. Later in the debate Lynne accused me of advocating top universities charging more, which I hadn't.
‘Of course some students want tuition fees scrapped altogether, and that was the most contentious issue in the debate but not even the National Union of Students is advocating this. Their President said at the debate that he didn't think it fair for tuition fees to be paid from general taxation, and students who benefit from higher education should make a contribution towards it.’
Also taking part was Jean Samuel, Labour Candidate for the Canterbury and Whitstable seat. Mr Collins took the place of sitting Conservative MP Julian Brazier and Ms Beaumont took the place of Lib Dem candidate Guy Voizey.
The 2001 census lists 13.2% of the Canterbury population as full-time students, compared with Folkestone and Hythe at 2.2%. The number of full-time students in the Folkestone and Hythe population will have risen with the creation of University Centre Folkestone, but coupled with many graduates leaving the area the student vote is certainly not as strong as in Canterbury.
Friday, 26 February 2010
More Lib Dem Leaflets To Come
Parliamentary Candidate Lynne Beaumont has promised that thousands more leaflets will be delivered to homes in Shepway.
The leaflet makes the most of Cllr Beaumont’s 25 years in the local area, presenting a clear contrast to her main opponent and favourite for the seat, Conservative Damian Collins.
The large, glossy leaflet was the subject of a recent article in the Folkestone Herald, with some questions over whether the Lib Dems could afford such material. At the time of writing, several but not all wards in Shepway had received copies of the leaflet.
Speaking to FUTS, Cllr Beaumont promised that several weekends of deliveries were scheduled, with tens of thousands more leaflets on order.
The leaflet makes the most of Cllr Beaumont’s 25 years in the local area, presenting a clear contrast to her main opponent and favourite for the seat, Conservative Damian Collins.
The large, glossy leaflet was the subject of a recent article in the Folkestone Herald, with some questions over whether the Lib Dems could afford such material. At the time of writing, several but not all wards in Shepway had received copies of the leaflet.
Speaking to FUTS, Cllr Beaumont promised that several weekends of deliveries were scheduled, with tens of thousands more leaflets on order.
Saturday, 6 February 2010
Interview With Lynne Beaumont Liberal Democrat PPC [conducted Sun Jan 17]
A few years ago the Lib Dems seemed to be on the cusp of great things. Controlling Shepway District Council with 29 seats, in the run up to the 2005 national election Lib Dem leader Charles Kennedy visited the Folkestone and Hythe constituency in an attempt to unseat Howard.
However, the last few years have been a torrid time for the local Liberal Democrat Party. but locally the group was already in turmoil. A council tax rise of 39%, blamed on the previous Conservative administration leaving the finances in disarray, was capped by the national Government in 2004. Hugely unpopular public toilet closures, intended to save the district money, kept the pressure on and group began to split. Leader Linda Cufley resigned in 2004, and after an interlude current leader Lynne Beaumont took the position in December 2005.
In the national election the Conservative vote held strong against Liberal Democrat Peter Carroll and problems continued. Former Parliamentary Prospective Candidate (PPC) Toby Philpott resigned in May 2007 amid claims of plots and backstabbing. His replacement, Neil Matthews stepped down in October 2009 citing personal reasons. Throughout this time councillors continued to trickle away from the group, and currently there are only six Liberal Democrats on Shepway District Council.
The local group must be hoping for some stability. As PPC, Ms Beaumont has so far played an extremely active role, tweeting, writing and campaigning on a variety of issues. She called for the local party to ‘run the campaign of our lives’ and is leading by example – recently she scored headlines over the issue of waste at Dungeness. The Liberal Democrat tourist-centred vision for the Marsh seems to be flying in the face of popular opinion, but it is a bold move and the Lib Dems and Ms Beaumont are promoting it heavily. Whether any of this pays off in the national vote remains to be seen, especially with Conservative PPC Damian Collins looking almost certain to get the seat.
Ms Beaumont kindly agreed to meet for an interview, and was extremely generous with her time, speaking passionately about local issues and not ducking questions about the group’s much discussed dynamics and changes.
Note - Due to the extreme length I have edited some of the responses. To the best of my ability I have not altered any of the sentiments in any of the answers.
Do you believe the Liberal Democrats could win?
The most important thing is that people must vote. In my view voting should be compulsory and every vote counts. The main problem with politics is the apathy. Nick Clegg has a spark. He absolutely believes in the policies he is standing for and he is not afraid to say precisely what he is standing for. We have said we will cut student fees, and we will. We will phase this in, starting with final year students, but we will do this.
Nick Clegg is largely anonymous – if I showed a picture on the street, would many people recognise him?
I have met all three leaders. Gordon Brown has a charisma and a warmth around him that fills the room. His problem is that this doesn’t come across on TV, he has an incompetent team around him. He shouldn’t get the blame for the recession – thank God Gordon Brown was in power and not David Cameron. David Cameron is not real. He appears airbrushed in posters and the public are sick of it.
Just to expand issue of appearance. The photo you have used to announce your selection is an extremely nice photo – was it professionally done? Why not use a photo from the selection night?
[Laughs] That was not a professionally done photo! My husband (Peter Carroll) took it. There are hundreds of images I could have chosen. I didn’t use one from the selection night as indoor photos come out terribly.
Do you feel you can win the Folkestone and Hythe seat?
For the first election in a long time there is no such thing as a safe seat. Everything I will do is to win this seat. I represent something different, so people will vote differently. Firstly I’m a woman, which might make a difference. I’m local. I chose to move here. Damian Collins is a wannabe MP who lost in Northampton North. He doesn’t care where he lives. I think MPs should give up outside work.
Do you have a job?
I have been a foster-carer and now I am Leader of the Shepway Liberal Democrats. If I had a job I would certainly give it up, no question. Those days are gone and the position requires absolute commitment.
Your initial announcements and declarations as PPC for Folkestone and Hythe make much of standing up for local people and local issues. What local issues will you campaign about?
Well, there are so many big local issues. My top one would be jobs. We need more work here. The high speed rail link is fantastic, but we need to make sure we make the most of that.
You were the only candidate for the PPC post. Was your selection a stitch up?
Absolutely not! The regional party came to me and asked me to parachute into the seat. I said ‘no way!’ I wanted to go through the selection process. The post was advertised nationally and anyone could apply. 3 selection packs for the were sent out, only one was returned. In the meeting, it is possible for people to vote to Re-Open Nominations. There were only two votes to re-open nominations.
Was the hall full? How many people were there?
Well, it was held in the worst snow ever, and Saltwood is not an easy place to get to. I am pleased to say that 30 members of the party made it to Saltwood to vote. Unfortunately we couldn’t wait for better weather as there is a minimum of three weeks notice and we cannot wait that long.
Folkestone and Hythe has always been Conservative. Why do you feel this is?
We live in a traditional Conservative area. I think generational loyalty here is strong. One constituent I spoke to said she had to vote Conservative as if she didn’t her mother would ‘turn in her grave’. Michael Howard has a large personal vote in this area, but it is time to do things differently. East Folkestone is still one of the most deprived areas in the country, even after 26 years.
In the 2005 campaign Liberal Democrat Leader Charles Kennedy visited Folkestone and Hythe in an attempt to unseat Michael Howard, yet his share of the vote increased. Why was this?
Folkestone and Hythe was a target Lib Dem seat, but Michael Howard was the Leader of the Opposition and the Conservative spend on this was around half a million pounds.
Folkestone and Hythe is no longer a target seat for the Liberal Democrats. Why is this?
You have to think of it from the national party’s point of view. The Liberal Democrats controlled the council and we were very strong. We had 29 councillors, but not anymore. Since 2003 the trust between the public and the Liberal Democrats has been destroyed by Linda Cuffley, who I was vocal in getting rid of.
One national Liberal Democrat pledge is for transparent local government and in 2009 the Lib Dems repeatedly complained about non-transparent Shepway District Council. Yet Liberal Democrats on District and Town councils repeatedly vote to exclude press and public. Is this transparent?
Do I support transparency in local government? Yes I do. Everything should be open for the world to see, unless it concerns an individual’s or company’s privacy or finances. It is not fair for that information to be in the public domain if dealing with a council. In that case it is necessary to exclude the press and the public.
Both Conservatives and Labour are for capping immigration. Where do you stand on this issue?
I would not cap immigration. Who decides who comes in and out? We have benefitted from immigration; the skills base immigrants give us is huge. We would not have the NHS without immigrants. No one ever talks about emigration – It’s a two way street. The press do not help matters. Several years ago the most common complaint from people on the Marsh was the number of immigrants. How many immigrants are living on the Marsh? Not many. It is just scaremongering.
Often people say that immigrants should stay in the first safe country they cross. How do migrants often pass through several countries before reaching England?
Think about it. If you were fleeing persecution, wouldn’t you go as far away as possible? People say it is for the benefits, but there are better benefits in other European countries. People always ask why it is young men who come here, but again just think about it – young men are often the first people targeted in wars. If they are killed, then rural villages cannot support themselves.
Moving onto this campaign and local issues, some reports have claimed a loss of members that will make it difficult to fight the campaign. Has member ship gone up or down?
There is plenty of support. People are phoning me up offering support. Last week I recruited 6 new deliverers.
Did any join the party? Has the membership gone up or down?
Three joined the party, and I’m sure next week will see more people join. Membership has suffered over the last few years. It is natural to have a fall in membership after an unsuccessful election campaign, and with the other problems people left the party.
You are against Lydd Airport. Wouldn’t an airport be a way of improving the infrastructure of the area for tourists?
The airport is not sustainable. The figures for jobs are all wrong. It will create around 120 low paid jobs. There is no money set aside for the improvement of infrastructure. The masterplan for the airport has not been published and has been hushed up.
The Lib Dems have made clear their vision for the future of the Marsh. Is there local support for this?
Yes there is. What is the alternative? Dungeness C will not happen but no one is putting forward an alternative. It is our responsibility to get jobs on the Marsh, not the national government’s. Where is plan B? I think people will come round to this idea.
The Marsh has been well known for bird watching for many years. Why isn’t there a tourist industry already?
Good question. The Conservatives slashed the funding set aside for advertising the Marsh. The Marsh is well known, but we need a decent plan. It’s about time someone had a vision for the Marsh.
You have recently announced you are concerned about the waste issues around Dungeness. When did you know of these issues?
I first knew two weeks ago. Councillor Richardson says this information was in documents, but we have been looking and can’t find it. This information is not public. When Meridian came to film, the Magnox South representative did not even come and meet them. They just gave a statement that the journalist could not understand.
The Liberal Democrats were heavily involved in the Leas Lift campaign, but the Leas Lift campaign website expressed dissatisfaction that the Lib Dems were not interested once it stopped generating headlines, and felt the Lib Dems were all spin. Is this a fair comment?
No it is not a fair comment. One of the problems is that all discussions are confidential and no one can say anything. I have spoken with the Radnor estate and they tell me the issue is moving. I can’t say too much due to confidentiality but I can say that I have continued to speak with the Radnor Estate. All I care about is the Leas Lift working. As for the issue of spin, Tim Prater, who runs our website, is one of the nicest people I have ever met. He is so careful to give credit where it’s due and fair reports.
Councillors have been crossing the floor since 2003. Doesn’t this show continued problems?
After the tax and toilets lots of people were furious. Then our PPC Toby Philpott resigned, and lots of people thought here we go again. Lots of people who crossed the floor were Toby Philpott supporters. After this, some have been led by the nose. Others have been lured with false promises. I know some councillors want to come back, but think about how it would look if they crossed the floor again. It isn’t going to happen soon but I don’t think the Conservative group will stay as it is.
Can you regain control of the council on 2011?
I think we can. The Conservatives have wasted a lot of money in this area. Car park charges are going up again – it is a matter of raising money by stealth. People will come to realise this.
With that the interview ends and Ms Beaumont, now late for her next appointment, leaves.
Since this interview she has pressed on with promoting the Lib Dem vision for the Marsh. Ms Beaumont is certainly marking out clear differences between herself and Mr Collins, and is best placed to give him a run for his money. It seems impossible that Ms Beaumont will gain the seat in the national election, but there is no such thing as a safe seat in politics.
A more telling election may come in 2011, with elections to the District Council. The council sways between Lib Dem and Conservative Control - If the Lib Dems can put the past behind them, the resurgence might be on.
However, the last few years have been a torrid time for the local Liberal Democrat Party. but locally the group was already in turmoil. A council tax rise of 39%, blamed on the previous Conservative administration leaving the finances in disarray, was capped by the national Government in 2004. Hugely unpopular public toilet closures, intended to save the district money, kept the pressure on and group began to split. Leader Linda Cufley resigned in 2004, and after an interlude current leader Lynne Beaumont took the position in December 2005.
In the national election the Conservative vote held strong against Liberal Democrat Peter Carroll and problems continued. Former Parliamentary Prospective Candidate (PPC) Toby Philpott resigned in May 2007 amid claims of plots and backstabbing. His replacement, Neil Matthews stepped down in October 2009 citing personal reasons. Throughout this time councillors continued to trickle away from the group, and currently there are only six Liberal Democrats on Shepway District Council.
The local group must be hoping for some stability. As PPC, Ms Beaumont has so far played an extremely active role, tweeting, writing and campaigning on a variety of issues. She called for the local party to ‘run the campaign of our lives’ and is leading by example – recently she scored headlines over the issue of waste at Dungeness. The Liberal Democrat tourist-centred vision for the Marsh seems to be flying in the face of popular opinion, but it is a bold move and the Lib Dems and Ms Beaumont are promoting it heavily. Whether any of this pays off in the national vote remains to be seen, especially with Conservative PPC Damian Collins looking almost certain to get the seat.
Ms Beaumont kindly agreed to meet for an interview, and was extremely generous with her time, speaking passionately about local issues and not ducking questions about the group’s much discussed dynamics and changes.
Note - Due to the extreme length I have edited some of the responses. To the best of my ability I have not altered any of the sentiments in any of the answers.
Do you believe the Liberal Democrats could win?
The most important thing is that people must vote. In my view voting should be compulsory and every vote counts. The main problem with politics is the apathy. Nick Clegg has a spark. He absolutely believes in the policies he is standing for and he is not afraid to say precisely what he is standing for. We have said we will cut student fees, and we will. We will phase this in, starting with final year students, but we will do this.
Nick Clegg is largely anonymous – if I showed a picture on the street, would many people recognise him?
I have met all three leaders. Gordon Brown has a charisma and a warmth around him that fills the room. His problem is that this doesn’t come across on TV, he has an incompetent team around him. He shouldn’t get the blame for the recession – thank God Gordon Brown was in power and not David Cameron. David Cameron is not real. He appears airbrushed in posters and the public are sick of it.
Just to expand issue of appearance. The photo you have used to announce your selection is an extremely nice photo – was it professionally done? Why not use a photo from the selection night?
[Laughs] That was not a professionally done photo! My husband (Peter Carroll) took it. There are hundreds of images I could have chosen. I didn’t use one from the selection night as indoor photos come out terribly.
Do you feel you can win the Folkestone and Hythe seat?
For the first election in a long time there is no such thing as a safe seat. Everything I will do is to win this seat. I represent something different, so people will vote differently. Firstly I’m a woman, which might make a difference. I’m local. I chose to move here. Damian Collins is a wannabe MP who lost in Northampton North. He doesn’t care where he lives. I think MPs should give up outside work.
Do you have a job?
I have been a foster-carer and now I am Leader of the Shepway Liberal Democrats. If I had a job I would certainly give it up, no question. Those days are gone and the position requires absolute commitment.
Your initial announcements and declarations as PPC for Folkestone and Hythe make much of standing up for local people and local issues. What local issues will you campaign about?
Well, there are so many big local issues. My top one would be jobs. We need more work here. The high speed rail link is fantastic, but we need to make sure we make the most of that.
You were the only candidate for the PPC post. Was your selection a stitch up?
Absolutely not! The regional party came to me and asked me to parachute into the seat. I said ‘no way!’ I wanted to go through the selection process. The post was advertised nationally and anyone could apply. 3 selection packs for the were sent out, only one was returned. In the meeting, it is possible for people to vote to Re-Open Nominations. There were only two votes to re-open nominations.
Was the hall full? How many people were there?
Well, it was held in the worst snow ever, and Saltwood is not an easy place to get to. I am pleased to say that 30 members of the party made it to Saltwood to vote. Unfortunately we couldn’t wait for better weather as there is a minimum of three weeks notice and we cannot wait that long.
Folkestone and Hythe has always been Conservative. Why do you feel this is?
We live in a traditional Conservative area. I think generational loyalty here is strong. One constituent I spoke to said she had to vote Conservative as if she didn’t her mother would ‘turn in her grave’. Michael Howard has a large personal vote in this area, but it is time to do things differently. East Folkestone is still one of the most deprived areas in the country, even after 26 years.
In the 2005 campaign Liberal Democrat Leader Charles Kennedy visited Folkestone and Hythe in an attempt to unseat Michael Howard, yet his share of the vote increased. Why was this?
Folkestone and Hythe was a target Lib Dem seat, but Michael Howard was the Leader of the Opposition and the Conservative spend on this was around half a million pounds.
Folkestone and Hythe is no longer a target seat for the Liberal Democrats. Why is this?
You have to think of it from the national party’s point of view. The Liberal Democrats controlled the council and we were very strong. We had 29 councillors, but not anymore. Since 2003 the trust between the public and the Liberal Democrats has been destroyed by Linda Cuffley, who I was vocal in getting rid of.
One national Liberal Democrat pledge is for transparent local government and in 2009 the Lib Dems repeatedly complained about non-transparent Shepway District Council. Yet Liberal Democrats on District and Town councils repeatedly vote to exclude press and public. Is this transparent?
Do I support transparency in local government? Yes I do. Everything should be open for the world to see, unless it concerns an individual’s or company’s privacy or finances. It is not fair for that information to be in the public domain if dealing with a council. In that case it is necessary to exclude the press and the public.
Both Conservatives and Labour are for capping immigration. Where do you stand on this issue?
I would not cap immigration. Who decides who comes in and out? We have benefitted from immigration; the skills base immigrants give us is huge. We would not have the NHS without immigrants. No one ever talks about emigration – It’s a two way street. The press do not help matters. Several years ago the most common complaint from people on the Marsh was the number of immigrants. How many immigrants are living on the Marsh? Not many. It is just scaremongering.
Often people say that immigrants should stay in the first safe country they cross. How do migrants often pass through several countries before reaching England?
Think about it. If you were fleeing persecution, wouldn’t you go as far away as possible? People say it is for the benefits, but there are better benefits in other European countries. People always ask why it is young men who come here, but again just think about it – young men are often the first people targeted in wars. If they are killed, then rural villages cannot support themselves.
Moving onto this campaign and local issues, some reports have claimed a loss of members that will make it difficult to fight the campaign. Has member ship gone up or down?
There is plenty of support. People are phoning me up offering support. Last week I recruited 6 new deliverers.
Did any join the party? Has the membership gone up or down?
Three joined the party, and I’m sure next week will see more people join. Membership has suffered over the last few years. It is natural to have a fall in membership after an unsuccessful election campaign, and with the other problems people left the party.
You are against Lydd Airport. Wouldn’t an airport be a way of improving the infrastructure of the area for tourists?
The airport is not sustainable. The figures for jobs are all wrong. It will create around 120 low paid jobs. There is no money set aside for the improvement of infrastructure. The masterplan for the airport has not been published and has been hushed up.
The Lib Dems have made clear their vision for the future of the Marsh. Is there local support for this?
Yes there is. What is the alternative? Dungeness C will not happen but no one is putting forward an alternative. It is our responsibility to get jobs on the Marsh, not the national government’s. Where is plan B? I think people will come round to this idea.
The Marsh has been well known for bird watching for many years. Why isn’t there a tourist industry already?
Good question. The Conservatives slashed the funding set aside for advertising the Marsh. The Marsh is well known, but we need a decent plan. It’s about time someone had a vision for the Marsh.
You have recently announced you are concerned about the waste issues around Dungeness. When did you know of these issues?
I first knew two weeks ago. Councillor Richardson says this information was in documents, but we have been looking and can’t find it. This information is not public. When Meridian came to film, the Magnox South representative did not even come and meet them. They just gave a statement that the journalist could not understand.
The Liberal Democrats were heavily involved in the Leas Lift campaign, but the Leas Lift campaign website expressed dissatisfaction that the Lib Dems were not interested once it stopped generating headlines, and felt the Lib Dems were all spin. Is this a fair comment?
No it is not a fair comment. One of the problems is that all discussions are confidential and no one can say anything. I have spoken with the Radnor estate and they tell me the issue is moving. I can’t say too much due to confidentiality but I can say that I have continued to speak with the Radnor Estate. All I care about is the Leas Lift working. As for the issue of spin, Tim Prater, who runs our website, is one of the nicest people I have ever met. He is so careful to give credit where it’s due and fair reports.
Councillors have been crossing the floor since 2003. Doesn’t this show continued problems?
After the tax and toilets lots of people were furious. Then our PPC Toby Philpott resigned, and lots of people thought here we go again. Lots of people who crossed the floor were Toby Philpott supporters. After this, some have been led by the nose. Others have been lured with false promises. I know some councillors want to come back, but think about how it would look if they crossed the floor again. It isn’t going to happen soon but I don’t think the Conservative group will stay as it is.
Can you regain control of the council on 2011?
I think we can. The Conservatives have wasted a lot of money in this area. Car park charges are going up again – it is a matter of raising money by stealth. People will come to realise this.
With that the interview ends and Ms Beaumont, now late for her next appointment, leaves.
Since this interview she has pressed on with promoting the Lib Dem vision for the Marsh. Ms Beaumont is certainly marking out clear differences between herself and Mr Collins, and is best placed to give him a run for his money. It seems impossible that Ms Beaumont will gain the seat in the national election, but there is no such thing as a safe seat in politics.
A more telling election may come in 2011, with elections to the District Council. The council sways between Lib Dem and Conservative Control - If the Lib Dems can put the past behind them, the resurgence might be on.
Lib Dem Councillor Prater Denies Unfair Reporting
Liberal Democrat Town, District and County Councillor Tim Prater has dismissed suggestions that stories on the Liberal Democrat website are unfair and misleading.
Shepway Lib Dems have a very active web presence, and commentators occasionally accuse the group of ‘spinning’, or using bad news to generate publicity.
A story on the Lib Dem website titled ‘Councillors join beach litter pick’ contained details of Lib Dem councillors involved but omitted any mention of other non-Lib Dem councillors who took part. A printed Lib Dem flyer does reference ‘other councillors’.
Cllr Prater, who also part owns the company that designs and runs the site, stated ‘I feel [the web article about the litter pick] was accurate and fair. It didn't claim they were doing it alone - it was a brief update on their activity.’
In response to questions about an article headlined ‘3,400 Folkestone and Hythe pensioners to miss out on cold weather payments,’ which was based on national a national average rather than specific figures problems for Shepway, Cllr Prater stated, ‘There are many stories in the press that take a national figure and project what that would mean for a local area. The individual stats for exactly how many people in a specific area are not claiming are not collected (and probably, by definition, couldn't be).
‘There is no reason to suspect Shepway is significantly different from average in terms of take-up of that benefit’.
Defending the site, Cllr Prater stated ‘Our site is based mainly on news from and about the Liberal Democrats. It says what it is clearly on the site. It reports what the Lib Dems are doing’.
‘The Shepway Lib Dems try to keep people up to date with what we are doing at http://www.shepwaylibdems.org.uk/ with a site that is updated massively more frequently than any other Party's site in the area (and indeed, some Parties don't even have one).
‘We do so without significant resources, time and money: we think it’s important that people know what the Lib Dems are doing locally’.
Shepway Lib Dems have a very active web presence, and commentators occasionally accuse the group of ‘spinning’, or using bad news to generate publicity.
A story on the Lib Dem website titled ‘Councillors join beach litter pick’ contained details of Lib Dem councillors involved but omitted any mention of other non-Lib Dem councillors who took part. A printed Lib Dem flyer does reference ‘other councillors’.
Cllr Prater, who also part owns the company that designs and runs the site, stated ‘I feel [the web article about the litter pick] was accurate and fair. It didn't claim they were doing it alone - it was a brief update on their activity.’
In response to questions about an article headlined ‘3,400 Folkestone and Hythe pensioners to miss out on cold weather payments,’ which was based on national a national average rather than specific figures problems for Shepway, Cllr Prater stated, ‘There are many stories in the press that take a national figure and project what that would mean for a local area. The individual stats for exactly how many people in a specific area are not claiming are not collected (and probably, by definition, couldn't be).
‘There is no reason to suspect Shepway is significantly different from average in terms of take-up of that benefit’.
Defending the site, Cllr Prater stated ‘Our site is based mainly on news from and about the Liberal Democrats. It says what it is clearly on the site. It reports what the Lib Dems are doing’.
‘The Shepway Lib Dems try to keep people up to date with what we are doing at http://www.shepwaylibdems.org.uk/ with a site that is updated massively more frequently than any other Party's site in the area (and indeed, some Parties don't even have one).
‘We do so without significant resources, time and money: we think it’s important that people know what the Lib Dems are doing locally’.
Monday, 1 February 2010
Lib Dems Not Going Soft on Opposition to Dungeness C
Shepway Liberal Democrat Leader Lynne Beaumont has reacted to suggestions that her comments to the Romney Marsh Times may have signalled a softening of Lib Dem opposition to a new-build nuclear power station at Dungeness.
Having pushed for a tourist centered plan for the Marsh, Prospective Parliamentary Candidate Beaumont stated these plans would not be an 'either/or situation ... but run alongside any decision that is made [about Dungeness C]'.
In comments to FUTS, PPC Beaumont confirms her opposition to a new power station,'There is nothing soft about the Lib Dems stand on Dungeness C. I am against the building of a new nuclear power station at Dungeness'.
Raising concerns over waste storage and the long term future of the site, PPC Beaumont continues, 'New build nuclear power stations, are a completely different animal to Dungeness A and B. All new build nuclear power stations, keep High level waste on site. High level waste is solely spent nuclear fuel rods. They will have to stay on site for around 160 years.
'It would be contained in cooling ponds inside the reactor building immediately adjacent to the reactor itself. After several years, as the internal cooling ponds fill up it will be moved just outside of the main building into a purpose built HLW store. What this means, is that high level waste will be kept, and stored on site, with no possibility of being able to move it in an emergency.
'Now ask yourself the question. Would you allow this to be built in one of the highest flood risk areas in the country? My answer: no. Where will sea levels be in 200 years? Nobody knows the answer to that question, and this is a risk far far too great to take.'
The Liberal Democrat opposition to a new-build nuclear power station has generated much debate and PPC Beaumont has appeared on front pages and local TV news bulletins. Some commentators have supported opposition, but others have described a new power station as necessary to keep jobs in the local area.
One Conservative Councillor has suggested that the Liberal Democrats are scaremongering over waste storage, looking for votes.
With Conservatives and Labour politicians calling for a new power station and putting together cases and presentations to take to Westminster, this will remain an important issue in the lead up to a national election and beyond.
Having pushed for a tourist centered plan for the Marsh, Prospective Parliamentary Candidate Beaumont stated these plans would not be an 'either/or situation ... but run alongside any decision that is made [about Dungeness C]'.
In comments to FUTS, PPC Beaumont confirms her opposition to a new power station,'There is nothing soft about the Lib Dems stand on Dungeness C. I am against the building of a new nuclear power station at Dungeness'.
Raising concerns over waste storage and the long term future of the site, PPC Beaumont continues, 'New build nuclear power stations, are a completely different animal to Dungeness A and B. All new build nuclear power stations, keep High level waste on site. High level waste is solely spent nuclear fuel rods. They will have to stay on site for around 160 years.
'It would be contained in cooling ponds inside the reactor building immediately adjacent to the reactor itself. After several years, as the internal cooling ponds fill up it will be moved just outside of the main building into a purpose built HLW store. What this means, is that high level waste will be kept, and stored on site, with no possibility of being able to move it in an emergency.
'Now ask yourself the question. Would you allow this to be built in one of the highest flood risk areas in the country? My answer: no. Where will sea levels be in 200 years? Nobody knows the answer to that question, and this is a risk far far too great to take.'
The Liberal Democrat opposition to a new-build nuclear power station has generated much debate and PPC Beaumont has appeared on front pages and local TV news bulletins. Some commentators have supported opposition, but others have described a new power station as necessary to keep jobs in the local area.
One Conservative Councillor has suggested that the Liberal Democrats are scaremongering over waste storage, looking for votes.
With Conservatives and Labour politicians calling for a new power station and putting together cases and presentations to take to Westminster, this will remain an important issue in the lead up to a national election and beyond.
Tuesday, 26 January 2010
Conservative Chairman Reiterates Support for Dungeness C
Conservative Chariman and Shepway District Councillor Russell Tillson has reiterated Shepway Conservatives’ commitment to a new Dungeness C power station following a recent announcement by Shepway Liberal Democrat Leader Lynne Beaumont to hold an ‘Eco-Tourism summit’ to discuss alternative plans for Romney Marsh.
In an email to FUTS, Cllr Tillson says ‘There is little that Cllr Mrs Beaumont has said with which I disagree – except, of course, for her attempt to write Dungeness C out of the script. The importance of Dungeness cannot be understated.’
Revealing the council has commissioned a specialist report into the matter and is ‘putting enormous pressure on the government to alter its decision’, Cllr Tillson describes the power station as ‘vital’ to the local economy, stating the existing A and B stations employ over 1000 people, inject ‘over £30 million’ into the local economy, and that '9.6% of men on the Marsh work in electricity, gas and water supply, the overwhelming majority of whom work in electricity generation'.
‘This is employment we cannot do without, and Dungeness C must go ahead, since it will create employment for at least 400 people directly and probably another 100 jobs indirectly in shops, hotels and suppliers of other goods and services.
‘I don’t see tourism as an alternative to the power station, but rather as a complement. Nobody who lives on the Marsh is keener than I am to support the development of tourism. Indeed I look forward to the day when our Marsh coastline is full of hotels, B&Bs, restaurants, pubs and shops.
‘The Environment Agency, however, might have other ideas about tourist development since much of the Marsh area lies in a high risk Category 3A flood risk area.’
Noting that tourist season lasts for ‘six months at best’ and would only provide ‘low-paid’ employment, Cllr Tillson has offers to meet Cllr Beaumont to discuss the issue further.
‘Cllr Mrs Beaumont wants me to attend a meeting to debate all this. And she likes cycling. So I’ll do better than that. I invite Cllr Mrs Beaumont to join me on a day’s bike ride which will enable us to discuss her Business Plan at length, and will have the added benefit of introducing a lady from Folkestone to the various attractions across the Marsh, many of which might very well be quite new to her.’
The government’s decision to not consider Dungeness as a site for a new-build power station has provoked much comment and debate. The Liberal Democrats have been pushing for an alternative vision for the Marsh and have recently raised concerns over the future of waste storage at the site. The Conservative group is strongly in favour of a new nuclear power station.
Recently there appears to have been some softening of positions on both sides. In a similar fashion to Cllr Tillson’s comments, Cllr Beaumont recently said to Romney Marsh Times that tourism plans would ‘complement' a power station and that it is not an 'either/or decision.'
Whether Cllr Tillson and Beaumont will enjoy a bike ride together remains to be seen.
In an email to FUTS, Cllr Tillson says ‘There is little that Cllr Mrs Beaumont has said with which I disagree – except, of course, for her attempt to write Dungeness C out of the script. The importance of Dungeness cannot be understated.’
Revealing the council has commissioned a specialist report into the matter and is ‘putting enormous pressure on the government to alter its decision’, Cllr Tillson describes the power station as ‘vital’ to the local economy, stating the existing A and B stations employ over 1000 people, inject ‘over £30 million’ into the local economy, and that '9.6% of men on the Marsh work in electricity, gas and water supply, the overwhelming majority of whom work in electricity generation'.
‘This is employment we cannot do without, and Dungeness C must go ahead, since it will create employment for at least 400 people directly and probably another 100 jobs indirectly in shops, hotels and suppliers of other goods and services.
‘I don’t see tourism as an alternative to the power station, but rather as a complement. Nobody who lives on the Marsh is keener than I am to support the development of tourism. Indeed I look forward to the day when our Marsh coastline is full of hotels, B&Bs, restaurants, pubs and shops.
‘The Environment Agency, however, might have other ideas about tourist development since much of the Marsh area lies in a high risk Category 3A flood risk area.’
Noting that tourist season lasts for ‘six months at best’ and would only provide ‘low-paid’ employment, Cllr Tillson has offers to meet Cllr Beaumont to discuss the issue further.
‘Cllr Mrs Beaumont wants me to attend a meeting to debate all this. And she likes cycling. So I’ll do better than that. I invite Cllr Mrs Beaumont to join me on a day’s bike ride which will enable us to discuss her Business Plan at length, and will have the added benefit of introducing a lady from Folkestone to the various attractions across the Marsh, many of which might very well be quite new to her.’
The government’s decision to not consider Dungeness as a site for a new-build power station has provoked much comment and debate. The Liberal Democrats have been pushing for an alternative vision for the Marsh and have recently raised concerns over the future of waste storage at the site. The Conservative group is strongly in favour of a new nuclear power station.
Recently there appears to have been some softening of positions on both sides. In a similar fashion to Cllr Tillson’s comments, Cllr Beaumont recently said to Romney Marsh Times that tourism plans would ‘complement' a power station and that it is not an 'either/or decision.'
Whether Cllr Tillson and Beaumont will enjoy a bike ride together remains to be seen.
Monday, 25 January 2010
Lib Dems Softening Approach to Dungeness C?
Interesting article on Romney Marsh Times about the Lib Dem plans for an 'Eco-Tourism summit' on the Marsh.
Shepway Lib Dem leader and Parliamentary Candidate Lynne Beaumont is quoted as saying 'This is not an either/or situation whether or not the Government decides Dungeness C should go ahead, but to run alongside any decision that is made.'
This could signal a softening of the Lib Dem line to on a new power station on the Marsh. Two weeks ago the Lib Dems generated a lot of publicity claiming that Marsh residents were not being told of the decision to store intermediate-level nuclear waste onsite.
Whilst individual councillors have often stated that they are not against nuclear power in principle, the Lib Dems have not given support for a new power station. The source of much debate locally, this could be a key issue for Marsh and Shepway voters when casting votes in the upcoming national election.
The Romney Marsh Times article also has space for comments, so get involved and have your say!
Shepway Lib Dem leader and Parliamentary Candidate Lynne Beaumont is quoted as saying 'This is not an either/or situation whether or not the Government decides Dungeness C should go ahead, but to run alongside any decision that is made.'
This could signal a softening of the Lib Dem line to on a new power station on the Marsh. Two weeks ago the Lib Dems generated a lot of publicity claiming that Marsh residents were not being told of the decision to store intermediate-level nuclear waste onsite.
Whilst individual councillors have often stated that they are not against nuclear power in principle, the Lib Dems have not given support for a new power station. The source of much debate locally, this could be a key issue for Marsh and Shepway voters when casting votes in the upcoming national election.
The Romney Marsh Times article also has space for comments, so get involved and have your say!
Tuesday, 12 January 2010
Where is Toby Philpott?
Following the selection of Lynne Beaumont as Lib Dem PPC, 'Liberal Legend' Toby Philpott has been pretty quiet. A few tweets here and there and a good dollop of speculation and gossip from interested observers, but as yet nothing posted on any of his blogs since Feb last year despite earlier warnings.
Of the messages getting to FUTS, one eagle-eyed observer from the 'sixth continent' noted that http://www.libdemvoice.org/, which carried the news of Cllr Neil Matthews stepping down from the post to embarassing effect, has yet to note Ms Beaumont's selection.
Is the local candidate being shunned? Perhaps.
Maybe been once bitten on the forum, someone along the lines of Liberal communication is twice shy of placing news about Shepway's latest PPC.
Only scurrilous gossip, and as yet nothing to suggest Ms Beaumont will finish lower than second, but we wait with baited breath!
Of the messages getting to FUTS, one eagle-eyed observer from the 'sixth continent' noted that http://www.libdemvoice.org/, which carried the news of Cllr Neil Matthews stepping down from the post to embarassing effect, has yet to note Ms Beaumont's selection.
Is the local candidate being shunned? Perhaps.
Maybe been once bitten on the forum, someone along the lines of Liberal communication is twice shy of placing news about Shepway's latest PPC.
Only scurrilous gossip, and as yet nothing to suggest Ms Beaumont will finish lower than second, but we wait with baited breath!
Sunday, 10 January 2010
Lynne Beaumont is Folkestone and Hythe Lib Dem Parliamentary Candidate
Town, district and county councillor Tim Prater has revealed that Shepway Liberal Democrat Leader Lynne Beaumont will be the Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Folkestone and Hythe.
In a tweet on January 9, Cllr Prater wrote 'Lynne Beaumont selected as Lib Dem Parliamentary Candidate for Folkestone & Hythe. Congratulations @lynnebeaumont'.
The position has been open since late October 2009 when Cllr Neil Matthews stepped down citing personal reasons.
Cllrs Prater and Beaumont were widely regarded to be the favourites for the position. Cllr Prater counted himself out in December 2009. The position has been the subject of much speculation since the exit of former candidate Toby Philpott. Mr Philpott has not yet announced his intentions but has previously commented on the position.
Confirmed PPCs for the Folkestone and Hythe seat from the main parties are currently Damian Collins for the Conservatives, Donald Worsley for Labour and Lynne Beaumont for the Liberal Democrats.
In a tweet on January 9, Cllr Prater wrote 'Lynne Beaumont selected as Lib Dem Parliamentary Candidate for Folkestone & Hythe. Congratulations @lynnebeaumont'.
The position has been open since late October 2009 when Cllr Neil Matthews stepped down citing personal reasons.
Cllrs Prater and Beaumont were widely regarded to be the favourites for the position. Cllr Prater counted himself out in December 2009. The position has been the subject of much speculation since the exit of former candidate Toby Philpott. Mr Philpott has not yet announced his intentions but has previously commented on the position.
Confirmed PPCs for the Folkestone and Hythe seat from the main parties are currently Damian Collins for the Conservatives, Donald Worsley for Labour and Lynne Beaumont for the Liberal Democrats.
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