National conference to debate major issues

Isle of Wight Liberal Democrats will join those from across the country in Harrogate for the party's national spring conference this weekend (6-8 March). Debates on reforming the banks and the financial sector, skills and higher education, schools, prisons and childcare are all on the agenda.

Jill Wareham, Liberal Democrat Prospective Parliamentary Candidate and Bob Blezzard, Chair of the local party will be amongst those attending the conference.

"Local members are really looking forward to going to the conference," said Jill Wareham. "There are some great debates coming up and there is the chance to refresh our campaigning on local issues. Many of the issues on the agenda are important ones for the Island.

"I am particularly looking forward to listening to our Shadow Chancellor Vince Cable, who will be talking on the economy and conference will be rounded off with a speech by Nick Clegg."

In addition to Nick Clegg and Vince Cable, there will be a speech by Howard Dean, who campaigned to win the US Presidential nomination for the Democrats in 2004. Though Mr Dean did not win the nomination, he is widely regarded as having dramatically changed and improved campaigning on the internet.