|
|
A statement of Liberal Principles
THIS WE OFFER... Conviction We are clear that we were born out of the struggle for individual freedom. That struggle has placed us on the left of the political spectrum. We will fight excessive government interference and the power of monopoly capitalism. Tenacity We are the oldest party on the British political scene. We have frequently been assailed from all sides but have shown a remarkable capacity to regroup and to go on to fight more battles. Independence Our experience has been marked by individuals who have been prepared to make their stand. In our present parliament there are all too few such members. The apparatus of party whips restricts free expression It is little wonder that many able members of parliament, of all parties, are not seeking reelection having felt that they have “had enough of it”. It is equally unsurprising that fewer and fewer people want to join a party or be involved in any way.Some have even given up using their vote which spells real danger Inclusion. Liberals claim justice for everyone, irrespective of gender, sexuality, belief,class and ethnicity. Liberals are the champions of the disinherited, the oppressed and the weak, the world over. Liberals are needed to ensure that everyone counts, but that no one counts unduly. We believe that we must raise millions out of poverty by breaking the Tax/Poverty trap. AND IT WORKS ! All over the country there are small groups of Liberals serving on major local authorities. They have been elected frequently against fierce opposition from the self styled “three major parties” in Liverpool, Peterborough, Slough, Kidderminster, Exeter, Torridge, Ryedale. Individual Liberals serve on other councils and on many town and parish councils.
It provides an opportunity for independent minded candidates to stand against the machines of the “three major parties”. In recent years we have seen how even a small number of MPs elected who have the character to stand alone can have a disproportionate influence on the House of Commons. It also provides an opportunity for disillusioned voters who cannot support what the main parties put before them, and yet are aware of the illiberal messages that are coming from some of the minority parties, to cast a positive liberal vote for change. The size of that vote will influence political decision making. Liberals maintain an all year round presence on the political watch tower. Through its annual Assembly and National Executive it debates current issues. Members of the party will know about the outcomes of these debates through the publication of “Liberal News”. Full accounts can be read on the Liberal Party’s website. |
David Morrish, a long serving Liberal Party councillor with experience on Devon County Council and Exeter City Council who has also been a parliamentary candidate in both the Exeter and Tiverton constituencies, reflects on where the Liberal Party stands as we embark on a General Election.
