London Conference Brimming With Confidence

4.30.00pm GMT Sun 23rd Mar 2008

London Liberal Democrats have enjoyed a successful and positive Spring Conference in central London. Hundreds of activists, campaigners and ordinary members discussed listened to speeches and discussed policy at the one-day event.

Speakers included Mayoral candidate Brian Paddick, campaign Chair Tom Brake MP and party leader Nick Clegg MP. All were agreed that only the Liberal Democrats offer London the prospect of effective and innovative government.

Opinion polls both nationally and in London are showing a significant rise in support for the party. This is confirmed by real votes: in London by-elections held since Brian's selection as candidate in November, the Lib Dems have polled 39%, the Tories 31% and Labour 27%.

All agreed that Brian Paddick's campaign to be Mayor was excellent. When it came to Tory Mayoral candidate Boris Johnson, Nick Clegg said that he "wouldn't trust him to run his own bath, let alone London. He is obsessed with bendy-buses as a solution to every problem."

Tom Brake mentioned how important it was to get as many Liberal Democrat candidates elected to the GLA (Greater London Authority) as possible, mentioning local candidate for Croydon and Sutton, Abigail Lock, by name.

Brian Paddick explained why he was running for Mayor, why he will win and what he will do once elected. Having spent his formative years in Sutton and 30 years serving in the police force, he believes he is a London candidate with the best experience to run London. The packed auditorium agreed, giving him warm applause.