23 January 2007

Celtic Summit Sets the Scene for Greener, More Liberal Britain

With only one hundred days to go until the elections for the Scottish Parliament, Liberal Democrats in Wales and Scotland are pledging to work together for a “more Liberal and Greener Britain” at a summit in London today.

Nicol Stephen, leader of the Scottish Liberal Democrats, and Mike German, leader of the Welsh Liberal Democrats in the Welsh Assembly met today to discuss issues affecting their nations as both countries gear up for vital elections.

Both men will go in to the elections championing their ambitious pledge on green action – both want to see their country provide 100% of their energy needs from renewable resources by 2050.

Nicol Stephen MSPNicol Stephen MSPSpeaking after the summit Nicol Stephen said:

“This May’s election sees Liberal Democrats working hard in Scotland and Wales to be in government, and making a difference for the people we serve.

"In Scotland and in Wales more and more people are prepared to make the switch to the Liberal Democrats - the Dunfermline by-election has shown that historic family voting traditions are breaking down. And when people look at the options it is the Liberal Democrats who are winning support.

“We all know that support for Labour, dominant for so long, is slipping. Betrayal of trust on Iraq and unqualified support for George Bush has turned the country against Tony Blair.

“The Liberal Democrats in contrast, are positive about young people, committed to green renewable energy and determined to invest more in public transport."

Mike German said:

“Nicol and I acknowledge that our 2050 target is ambitious, but it is achievable if we stand up and say ‘this is important’. We owe it to future generations to ensure the world they inherit is as green and pleasant as the one we live in today.

“If we as Liberal Democrats can take the lead in our own countries, we can set an example for the UK government in Westminster to follow. We are both aiming to return with bigger groups. Both aiming to be part of the government. If we can promote liberal policies in Cardiff and Edinburgh it creates pressure for a more liberal Britain in all parts of the UK.

“In Wales we will be fighting our election seeking to implement some of the changes Nicol and his colleagues in Scotland have already achieved. And we remain committed to fighting for a proper Scottish-style parliament, with full law-making powers for Wales.”