Lib Dems in the North East launch Regional Manifesto

Liberal Democrats in the North East have launched their ideas for a fairer North East in Newcastle today.

Launching the party’s regional manifesto, Lord David Shutt of Greetland (pictured third left), Lib Dem Chief Whip in the House of Lords, said:

“The Leader’s debate last week has shown that the Liberal Democrats are a credible political force. Here in The North East, the Liberal Democrats have been Labour’s main challengers for years and have demonstrated that we are able to make a difference once in charge. Our principles set out in our manifesto nationally will also bring a very positive change to the region: our planned tax reform means that people in the North East will have an average £700 extra to spend each year; we will invest £175m into local schools with children from poorer backgrounds to make sure that each child gets a fair start in life; and we will invest in the North’s manufacturing base by improving the region’s infrastructure and refurbishing derelict ports which will enable giant offshore wind turbines to be produced here rather than abroad. The Liberal Democrats are committed to real change for the North East.”

Ian Swales (pictured first left) Lib Dem Candidate for Redcar said:

 "The Liberal Democrats have the ideas to improve the Teesside economy and are prepared to back them with major investment. Labour have done too little, too late, to deal with the local jobs crisis. Teesside would be a net winner from the Liberal Democrat tax policies and our schools would get a big injection of funds. I hope local people will recognise that we can bring real change after the area has been taken for granted for so long."