Liberal Democrat campaign gains huge momentum in South Suffolk

11.07.29am BST (GMT +0100) Mon 2nd May 2005

Kathy Pollard with Lord and Lady Phillips of Sudbury at Walnuttree Hospital

The Liberal Democrat campaign in South Suffolk is gaining momentum as more and more Labour voters switch to the Liberal Democrats. Lord Phillips of Sudbury said "I have been amazed at the strength of feeling on the Iraq war and the number of lifelong Labour supporters who are switching to the Liberal Democrats at this election. Many Conservative voters are also switching to us because they don't like Michael Howard's negative campaigning. Kathy Pollard is an excellent candidate with a record of achievement who would be an outstanding MP for this area."

Kathy Pollard added, "People in this area know that their Liberal Democrat councillors work hard for them and we have an excellent record of achievement. They also like our policies on local income tax, free personal care for older people and getting rid of tuition fees. I would feel privileged to represent South Suffolk."

On a visit to support Kathy Pollard in South Suffolk last week, Baroness Shirley Williams said, "It is clear that Labour is already out of the race in South Suffolk".

The Liberal Democrats' support has risen significantly in the South Suffolk constituency over the last few years. Lib Dems now have 23 councillors, compared with 17 for the Conservatives and 8 Labour. They polled more votes than any other party in the 2003 council elections - 40% to the Conservatives 34% and Labour's 10%.