We must relate to people's aspirations and their concerns

4.20.25pm UTC (GMT +0000) Wed 22nd Aug 2007

Andrew Houseley aims to stimulate debate to win over more Lib Dem voters at the Euro elections

Launching his campaign to become only the second Liberal Democrat MEP to represent the East of England, Andrew Houseley has called for the party to engage fully with the electorate.

"It's no use praising Europe to the hilt and not addressing the concerns many people have about continuing membership of the EU. That approach actually undermines the way we put across our beliefs, which are that playing a full part in Europe is essential for the peace, prosperity and sustainability of everyone, whether you are British, Latvian, Norwegian or French. Unfortunately, the image Liberal Democrats have as a party among the UK electorate is too often one of lacking in objectivity, which means in some people's eyes we have little to contribute to the debate. And these are people we should be trying to win over, not the confirmed europhobes, far nationalists and die-hard socialists. Instead, these are ordinary people who want the best for their families and for the world around them.

"If I am selected at or near the top of the party's list for the East of England, I am determined to ensure that we get people thinking and talking, are seen to be stimulating real debate. Because that is what reasonable people want: They may start out by saying they want a referendum on this aspect of the EU or that, but a real debate about securing our future as a people can take place in a general election for the European Parliament, where all the relevant issues can be considered equally."

Andrew's election address to East of England Liberal Democrats eligible to vote in this Autumn's selection process, can be viewed by clicking on the link below ...

Related Link:

Members' election address.