Wednesday, April 28, 2010

Carers, Farmers, Schools and Motorbikes.

Over the past few days I have been asked to talk to Carers, Farmers, Businesses, Schools and Bikers. This is one of the most enjoyable aspects of being a candidate and something I have built up a talent for in my own job; talking to people and understanding their own particular issues.

A theme running through listening various groups is how the previous government has been fixated with measurements, control and bureaucracy often with unintended consequences. It seems to me that if government cut back on much of this control and let people get on with Nursing, Teaching, Caring or any number of things they do, it would cost this country a lot less money and we would all get a better service.

Talking to the Farmers this afternoon, we could improve things a lot by breaking up Defra to create a ministry that looks after Farming and Food production (we could call it MAFF) and put a minister in charge that actually knows something about farming, rather than an MP for Leeds.

Its time to put a bit of common sense back into politics.

Sunday, April 25, 2010

Castle Hill Baptist Church - Questions

Had a great meeting at Castle Hill Baptist Church this evening, met some great people and discussed many issues.

One theme was to respect each others right of conscience, which lead to an interesting debate including the right of MPs to vote according to their consciences, which I totally agree and the right of people to celebrate their religious views which has been in the news recently on such issues as wearing religious symbols.

I have yet to meet anyone offended by for example Christians wearing a cross so why should it be an issue.

Campaigning in Warwick and Leamington

A lot of people have contracted me over the past week offering support and encouragement.

It has been hard work balancing a full time job and campaigning, taking part in public debates, radio and TV interviews and answering hundreds of emails. I finished work on Friday for the election so I now have some time to catch up.

It has been a fantastic time getting around our towns, meeting some tremendous people involved in all aspects of life here in Warwick, Leamington & Whitnash. It reminds me why we are so lucky to live here.

Over the past couple of weeks this campaign has suddenly got really exciting. We have the opportunity to build something new, a real change in this country!

I'm standing for election as a Liberal Democrat because I believe our area, our region and our country deserves something better. Not change for changes sake or yet more empty promises - but well thought out, honest and fair policies that deliver the real changes people want to see.

We can build sustainable, green economy to lead us out of the recession. The best possible education no matter where you are born. A healthcare system fit for the 21st century. Those are just some of things the Liberal Democrats can deliver.

I've lived in both Warwick and Leamington for about 15 years. It is a great place to work, live and socialise - although we do have our share of problems too. Jobs, health, education, crime - they are all concerns for local people. I'm not a professional politician or a PR person. I work in IT so I'm used to dealing with complex issues, talking to people, and getting the job done.

What I offer the people of Warwick and Leamington is that I will work for you - and you alone. No special interests. No spin. No lies. If you want real change vote Liberal Democrat on May 6th.

If you can help our campaign please email me. alan_beddow@yahoo.co.uk

Friday, April 09, 2010

Comment on housing development sites.

Just a quick reminder. You can comment on new sites being considered for housing development by following the link below.

http://warwickdc.jdi-consult.net/ldf/readdoc.php?docid=17&docelemid=d1176#d1176