17/01/2005

Liberal Democrats launch election campaign

Liberal Democrat leader, Charles Kennedy, has launched his party's strategy for the General Election by declaring them the "Real Opposition" to Labour.

Mr Kennedy said: "The Conservatives have been fading away as a truly national party. Across a third of the country, they are not even in contention anymore."

The Liberal Democrat leader emphasised the main themes of the party's election campaign. These included; improving the quality of public services; protecting the British people from terrorism and criminal activity, while still respecting civil liberties; working to restore Britain's international reputation, following the war in Iraq and the creation of a "strong vibrant" economy.

Mr Kennedy also introduced a series of policies for the upcoming General Election, which is expected to be held in May.

These include: the creation of a quality local health service; providing more early years support for parents and more nursery school places; abolishment of the Council Tax and university top-up and tuition fees; an equal Citizens Pension; free personal care for the elderly and a tough liberal approach crime, including putting 10,000 more police on the streets and reducing re-offender rates.

Mr Kennedy added: "This Labour government has used up the trust and goodwill of the people. At the General Election, the public will have the opportunity to vote for the real opposition in Britain, the Liberal Democrats."

(KMcA/SP)

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