Lib Dem Leadership hopeful heads for Greater Manchester!

2.42.11pm GMT Tue 21st Feb 2006

Liberal Democrat Leadership Candidate Mark Oaten MP will be heading for Greater Manchester tomorrow, in his bid to convince members to support his campaign to replace Charles Kennedy MP. The Liberal Democrat Shadow Home Secretary will be arriving at Manchester Airport at 3.00pm - skippered by high profile Lib Dem Lembit Opik MP.

Mark will then head to Rochdale - where he will visit the Smallbridge Tenant's and Resident's Association Headquarters to meet residents who face the realities of anti-social behaviour and crime on a daily basis.

Mark will say:

"Residents in Rochdale face the harsh realities of the ongoing battle against anti-social behaviour. The lives of people in Smallbridge continue to be blighted by vandalism and graffiti. Anti-Social Behaviour Orders and araft of failed Government initiatives have failed to help many areas of the Rochdale Borough and it vital to speak to those affected."

Mark will say:

"Greater Manchester has suffered under investment over many years resulting in the Government's failure to deliver the 3rd phase of the vital Metrolink and the continued threat to hospital services - despite claims of record investment by this Labour Government.

"In Rochdale - there is a huge campaign against the threat to the maternity, childcare and accident and emergency services at Rochdale Infirmary. Charles Kennedy signed the petition against any closure of these services and I also give my support to the campaign."

Mark will then speak to members and activists about his forthcoming Leadership Campaign. He will say:

"It's vital that the membership of the party have their say - that's democracy! I am looking forward to visiting and meeting members in Rochdale and answering the questions they have. These are the very members who rallied behind my colleague - the new MP for Rochdale - Paul Rowen. I will be travelling across the country and it is vital that we get the positive Lib Dem Message across to the general public as well."