This in from Nicholas Belfitt (Vice-Chair Isle of Wight Liberal Democrats & Chair of IOW Liberal Youth). Ed
The Isle of Wight Liberal Democrats were angered to hear the damning reports of Andrew Turner’s decision not to resist the 25% cuts to government funding in a vote in Parliament on 10th February.
Andrew Turner instead voted in favour of the cuts, damning the Island finances even though he still claims to be in support of Islanders.
“Tigers more important than constituents”
The Isle of Wight Liberal Democrats condemn this action and argue it shows that the MP no longer speaks or has the will to protect Islanders.
Nick Belfitt, Vice Chair of the Isle of Wight Liberal Dems, had this to say:
“We are deeply disappointed by Mr Turner’s actions both as Liberals and as Islanders. He continues to fail to stand up for the Island’s needs. Islanders are becoming increasingly frustrated with his excuses to not fight against these cuts. He seems detached from the reality of the problem.
“Many of us have had to grow up with Andrew Turner as the MP and this is just one of a growing list where the Conservative MP has voted against the Island’s interests. It appears that tigers are more important than his own constituents.”
Re-launch of IW Liberal Democrats
The Liberal Democrats are speaking out after their re-launch last Saturday for 2016 where they introduced their ideas for a new council focusing on business and investment, green energy and support for younger Islanders.
Nick Belfitt added
“It’s not enough for the Liberal Democrats to criticise the MP when he gets things wrong. We also have to show a positive alternative and that we are a credible opposition.
“The Island is a very Liberal place, Liberalism is in its roots – we plan to find those roots and put forward candidates and policies that will reflect the Island’s needs.”
