Cameron invites Lib Dem supporters to vote Conservative

David Cameron has issued an invitation to Liberal Democrats to switch to the Conservatives, and help build a modern, mainstream, and progressive opposition to the Labour Government.

The Conservative Leader delivered the appeal during a keynote speech in Hereford in which he emphasised that the Conservative Party is changing - and said:"So let's change things together".
With embattled Lib Dem leader Charles Kennedy under mounting pressure to quit, and support for his party falling away, Mr Cameron highlighted his drive to create a new brand of modern, compassionate Conservatism, and a party which is more inclusive and reflective of today's modern Britain.

And he said: "There is a new home for Liberal Democrat voters - and so a real prospect of a change of government - because today we have a Conservative Party that believes passionately in green politics, that is committed to decentralisation and localism, that supports open markets, that is prepared to stand up for civil liberties and the rule of law, and which wants Britain to be a positive participant in the EU, as a champion of liberal values."

Mr Cameron went on: "So I believe it's time for Liberal Democrat voters, councillors and MPs that share these values and this agenda to come and join the new Conservative Party. If you join us, we can together build a modern, progressive, liberal, mainstream opposition to Labour."

The Conservative Leader explained his credo - to improve public services by giving power to people, professionals and local communities; improve the environment and quality of life by turning green words into action; to strengthen the economy by freeing the creators of wealth, especially small businesses, to create jobs and prosperity. And also to improve the way Britain is run by respecting civil liberties and basic democratic rights.

Arguing that the obstacles that once stood in the way of creating a modern mainstream movement no longer exist - for example the Conservative attitude to devolution and the localisation of power - he declared: "I say to Liberal Democrats everywhere: we, like you, are on the side of the local community, and want to give local people more power and control over how their services are run, how their neighbourhoods are policed, and their priorities are delivered."

Mr Cameron said the Iraq war should no longer be a dividing issue. "I say to Liberal Democrats everywhere: we're on the same side now. We want to see the same things happen as quickly as possible: democracy established, security guaranteed, and our troops coming home as quickly as possible.

And stressing his liberal Conservative credentials, he said: "I'm determined to tackle the challenges faced by our country and our world in a moderate, forward-looking, progressive way. I hope, over the next weeks, months and years, that many Liberal Democrats will want to join us, to build a modern, compassionate Conservative Party, to help address the big challenges our society faces, and to be a growing voice for change, optimism and hope."

Read the full speech