Member News
Liberal Democrats gather in Sheffield this weekend for their Spring conference in the wake of a humiliating by-election defeat in Barnsley Central.
Almost a year into government the heady days of 'Cleggmania' are forgotten as the junior coalition partner continues to struggle in the polls.
The latest YouGov survey for The Sun has put the Lib Dems on just 9 per cent, well behind the Conservatives 34 per cent and Labour on 45 per cent.
In last week's Barnsley Central by-election the party came an embarrassing sixth place, having come second at the May 2010 general election.
In a message to members ahead of the conference on Nick Clegg's home turf, party president Tim Farron attempted to boost their spirits by setting out the party's achievements in power.
"The Liberal Democrats entered government at one of the most challenging times for the country," he said.
"We have not shrunk away from our responsibility to act in the national interest and we will not miss the opportunity to build a greener, fairer and more liberal Britain.
"Conference will be a great opportunity for us to engage with members, and give members direct access to all levels of the party.
"This is also the opportunity to recognize the excellent and valuable work of Liberal Democrats in government, both at local and national level. "
He continued: "Liberal Democrats are delivering an income tax cut, we’ve secured a pensions rise that’s worth an estimated £15,000 in retirement, and the country’s schools are getting more money to help the poorest pupils.
"Liberal Democrats are showing that while we make tough decisions to live within our means, we can also invest in the future."
The Unite union has called on Lib Dem members to support Baroness Shirley Williams conference policy amendments that would make the NHS the preferred provider in the health sector, and not the private sector.
Branding her the party's "conscience that won't shut up", Unite said if accepted, the amendments will add further weight to the calls for the Health and Social Care bill, which looks to introduce a market into healthcare and currently before parliament, to be radically altered.
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