Earlier this week Isle of Wight councillor, Michael Lilley announced he was leaving the Alliance Group at County Hall and joining the Liberal Democrat group of councillors.
Word reached us here at News OnTheWight that Cllr Lilley was planning to put himself forward as prospective parliamentary candidate for the LibDems.
News OnTheWight got in touch with Cllr Lilley to confirm the news and he responded swiftly and in detail.
Lilley: Political beliefs in tune with the Liberal movement
Cllr Lilley started by clarifying,
“My first decision to join the Lib Dem Party (LDP) was genuinely based that I felt and feel that my political beliefs are in tune with the Liberal movement and my residents interests are better served within the Lib Dem group at County Hall.”
He went on to confirm,
“Yes, I have been approached by many to stand as a parliamentary candidate for the new East Wight Constituency. As a member of LDP, I have, as all party members have, the right to put myself forward to be on the prospective candidate list for selection by party members.
“The IW Lib Dem Party has yet to decide and of course, proper process will be followed.”
Lilley: Hopefully I am one of the candidates
Cllr Lilley explained that he’d been in discussions for a while, but that it would be up to the National and Local Party to decide.
“I am sure be a number of good candidates to choose from, hopefully I am one of them. Whatever the outcome, I am committed to working with the IW LDP to win the East Wight Constituency in 2024 and see a Lib Dem MP representing this great area which I love.”
50 years since Stephen Ross was elected
Cllr Lilley went on the say,
“Next year, it is 50 years since Stephen Ross was elected as IOW Liberal MP and I believe he was the best MP we have ever had. I was privileged to meet him and support him.
“I don’t believe the Conservatives have done anything for our Island community and we need serious change. I believe who ever stands for the Lib Dems at the next General Election has the best chance to win in the East.
“I personally believe this candidate needs to live in the Constituency and have a good track record at local government level and a good knowledge of the issues. I will support them whoever they are.
“For now, I am getting on with working in the Lib Dem group at County Hall to support my residents in my ward and across the Island to my best ability.”
