Lib Dems launch Alternative Queen's Speech

12.00.00am GMT Fri 8th Nov 2002

NEW MEASURES WOULD HELP PEOPLE IN FELTHAM & HESTON SAYS ANDY DARLEY

New measures proposed by the Liberal Democrats would improve healthcare and reduce crime for thousands of people in Feltham and Heston, said Lib Dem Parliamentary spokesperson Andy Darley.

Mr Darley welcomed the Liberal Democrat Alternative Queen's Speech as "the best and only alternative to Labour's mismanagement, both nationally and in our area".

Launching the Alternative Queen's Speech yesterday, leader Charles Kennedy proposed 37 new Bills for the next session of Parliament, due to begin next week.

Our proposed legislation would:

• guarantee money for patients

• put more bobbies on the beat and introduce tougher measures to reduce crime and protect victims

• force criminals to confront the consequences of their actions

• set up a new fund for victims of crime

• provide decent pensions and introduce free personal care for the elderly

• scrap university tuition fees

• protect the environment with stiffer penalties for polluters

• tackle the housing crisis with new measures to bring empty homes back into use

Andy Darley said:

"The Liberal Democrats have won the argument over funding of the public services, now we must make sure the money is well spent.

"With the Conservatives disintegrating, there is no-one but us left to hold the government to account. That's what our Alternative Queen's Speech is all about - effective opposition."

Mr Kennedy said:

"These are considered measures which will make a real difference to people's lives. They are a constructive programme for change which would guarantee top quality healthcare, education and security for the elderly and frail - for everybody, regardless of their ability to pay."