Leader of the Liberal Democrats visits the region

On Saturday 18 November 2017, Vince Cable MP, the leader of the Liberal Democrats was guest speaker at the party's West Midlands regional Conference at the University of Birmingham.

The event was attended by Rugby Councillors Jerry Roodhouse, Tim Douglas and Neil Sandison.

Speaking to nearly 200 delegates Vince Cable said health, housing and inter-generational justice were his top three priorities beyond Brexit.

Vince Cable said: "The Liberal Democrats would put a penny on each pound included for income tax to raise £6bn a year for the NHS."

On housing Vince said: "House prices and people's earnings are completely out of sync. We can't just rely on private developers, Councils must be empowered to borrow and build."

In relation to young people he said: "The Lib Dems would tax wealthier people's assets to help introduce a lifelong learning endowment to enable every 18-year-old to fund their own training and professional development."

Commenting after the conference, Councillor Tim Douglas said:

"Vince Cable has highlighted the importance of public investment, being financially responsible and the Liberal Democrats commitment to public services."

Councillor Jerry Roodhouse added:

"The Lib Dems and its leader have a passionate belief in the NHS and public services. Look at the work we have done to stamp out the stigma surrounding mental health. British politics is becoming polarised and Vince Cable offers a voice of reason."