The role of community politics
In Suffolk Coastal, this week's election is to select the Police & Crime Commissioner for Suffolk, and we have no council elections at the same time. But elsewhere in the country there are local elections as well, for which the Liberal Democrats nationally have produced party election broadcasts. These focus on a core tenet of Liberal Democrat policy -- the importance of community politics, and the genuine effort made by Lib Dem councillors to improve the lives of people in their local areas.
In the videos, party leader Tim Farron says:
"The Liberal Democrats standing for council across our country in these elections are people who believe in fairness for the communities that they live in. They're people who are committed to working hard all year round."
and:
"We are people who believe in community politics... how you make things happen on the ground. Optimistic about the people whom we live amongst in our neighbourhood, and believing that together we can make things better. You have the opportunity to use your vote to support somebody who will make a difference for your community, work hard, keep in touch and get things done all year round. Who won't just disappear the day after they've got your vote, and not show up for another four years, but will be committed to your community. Because that is what the Liberal Democrats are all about."
On Thursday, Liberal Democrat Helen Korfanty is standing as a candidate for election as Police & Crime Commissioner, with a firm resolve to be an advocate for the people of Suffolk, to ensure that we can live in a safer community. Her commitment is part of a wider pattern of Liberal Democrat community politics. Here in Suffolk Coastal, members of the Liberal Democrats play their part in parish and town councils across the area, and we also have a Liberal Democrat county councillor (Caroline Page, Woodbridge). Together, we work to improve our communities, because Liberal Democrats believe that we are better together.