Top Derby Labour Party member switches to the Liberal Democrats

A leading member of Derby Labour Party has switched to the Liberal Democrats.

John Ahern, a former Labour Mayor of Derby, and Councillor for Chaddesden for twelve years has left the Labour Party in disgust at it's failure to deliver for local people.

He was welcomed into the party by Liberal Democrat MP Paul Holmes. Paul said "I am delighted to welcome John Ahern into the Liberal Democrats.

"Many Labour supporters are totally disillusioned with Gordon Brown's tired, failing government but don't want the Tories back in power. Up and down the country more and more Labour Party members are taking the same step as John Ahern and joining the Lib Dems."

Speaking at the meeting John Ahern said "I joined Labour because I thought they were the party that stood up for ordinary hard-working families.

"It is now clear that their policies, are hurting not helping most people. The gap between rich and poor has got wider under Labour. With food and fuel bills going up too, many people in Derby are really struggling to make ends meet.

"Most people I speak to, do not think Gordon Brown and his MPs in Derby are delivering for our area.

"What has made it worse is Gordon Brown and Labour's disastrous handling of the expenses scandal.

"However, I have been impressed with the Liberal Democrats' policies. Cutting taxes for people on middle and low incomes, cutting primary school class sizes and investing in transport, especially improving the railways will make things better for people in Derby and Britain.

"Nick Clegg's firm commitment to clean up politics, to stop any repeat of the MPs expenses scandals, has also encouraged me to join the Lib Dems.

"I am joining the Liberal Democrats so I can do my bit to help them in their fight for a better Britain.

"I'll be backing Lucy Care's bid to be Derby North's next MP. In Derby North the choice is clear; action from the Lib Dems or neglect with Labour."