Lib-Dem defector quits to join ‘new-look’ Tory party

Jun 20 2008 by Liam Murphy, Liverpool Daily Post

A SENIOR Liberal Democrat has abandoned his party over its recent decision to re-form a joint administration in Wirral.

Rob Earl, secretary of the Lib-Dems in South Wirral who was beaten in last month’s local elections by his new party, said he was impressed by recent changes to the Tory party.

Last night, Lib-Dem leader Cllr Simon Holbrook wished his former party colleague well.

Mr Earl was the Liberal Democrat candidate in Clatterbridge Ward on May 1 and most recently has been secretary of Wirral South Liberal Democrats.

Wirral South is seen as a key marginal seat, currently held by Labour MP Ben Chapman, but which the Conservatives would need to do well in at a future General Election.

Last night, shadow Foreign Secretary William Hague welcomed Mr Earl to the Conservatives at an event held in Thornton Hough.

Explaining his decision to join the Conservatives, Mr Earl was critical of the Government and Liberal Democrat opposition.

He said: “It is now clear that only the Conservatives can replace this hopeless, dithering Government.

“I have been impressed by the changes being made to the Conservative Party and, here in Wirral, their refusal to do any kind of secret deal with Labour. Indeed, the decision by the Liberal Democrat councillors in Wirral to prop up this failing, two-star Labour Council was the final straw.

“It’s time for change, not more of the same.”

Mr Hague said: “People are looking for change and they are realising that the only way to achieve that is through the Conservative Party.

“Rob Earl is the latest in a long line of former Liberal Democrats coming across to the Conservatives.”

Jeff Clarke, prospective Conservative MP for Wirral South, also a former Liberal Democrat, said: “Today’s Conservative Party is more green; more family-friendly, and more committed to giving power to local people.

“We are a modern and moderate party that wants to improve the quality of life for everyone and believe in social responsibility, not state control. I’m delighted to welcome Rob and look forward to working with him here.”

Liberal Democrat leader Simon Holbrook said he had been aware that Mr Earl had recently left the party, but had not been aware of Mr Earl’s change in political allegiance.

He said: “Obviously we do regret that Rob has not been able to stay with us.”

liammurphy