Lib Dems gather for pre-General Election Conference in Hove

2.37.04pm GMT Sat 6th Nov 2004

Liberal Democrats will gather tomorrow (Saturday, 6th November 2004) for their Regional Conference, top of the agenda is the party's prospects for the General Election, with Election Chief Lord Chris Rennard.

Hundreds of Liberal Democrats from across Sussex, Surrey and Kent will gather at Blatchington Mill School, Hove.

Key note speakers include Lib Dem Shadow Chancellor Vince Cable who will lead a debate on the part's economic strategy. The Conference will discuss its General Election strategy for the Region and in key seats such as for Norman Baker MP in Lewes and for the Lib Dem challenger Stephen Lloyd in marginal Eastbourne. Other debates include late night binge drinking.

The conference will be opened by local Liberal Democrat Councillor Paul Elgood, he says:

'It is wonderful that the Liberal Democrats return to the City for yet another Conference. The large Annual Conference returns regularly as do our Regional Conferences. Brighton and Hove is a great Conference destination and I am proud that the Lib Dems come so often.'

'This will be a key strategy session in the run up to the General Election, with the party's election chief Chris Rennard attending to brief delegates on the preparations for the General Election.

'This comes after another good year for the General Election, with strong showings in the European Elections locally.

'Lib Dems are working hard throughout the South East to ensure a good election result for the party.'

Local Liberal Democrat Jenny Barnard-Langston is proposing a motion regarding the plight of the Diego Garcia Refugees.