Stephen Kearney calls for honest and positive campaign

4.02.00pm BST (GMT +0100) Mon 2nd Jun 2008

Stephen Kearney: it's important we have a positive and honest campaign in Henley

Liberal Democrat campaigner Stephen Kearney has today called on John Howell and the Conservatives to join him in fighting a positive and honest campaign in the upcoming Henley by-election. Mr Kearney has today written to the Conservative candidate John Howell urging him to withdraw a Conservative campaign leaflet being distributed today which contains a mis-truth about where Mr Kearney lives.

Mr Kearney moved to Aston Rowant in the Henley Constituency some weeks ago as he promised local people he would do when he was first selected as the Liberal Democrat candidate.

Liberal Democrat campaigner, Stephen Kearney said:

"It is extremely disappointing that the Conservatives have started off on this negative footing. The Conservatives are well aware that I now live in Aston Rowant in the constituency. I promised local people that I would move to the constituency as soon as I was selected and that is what I have done. I do hope that Mr Howell will join me in fighting a positive and honest campaign rather than carrying on in this negative vein. For me it is important that we debate the issues that matter to local people such as tackling anti-social behaviour, saving local services and protecting our precious countryside.

Liberal Democrat Deputy Director of Campaigns, Neil Fawcett said:

"It is very telling that the Conservatives have started in such a manner. Clearly they know the Liberal Democrats are the main challengers in Henley and are worried about our challenge. Our campaign has been up and running for several weeks. Nick Clegg has sent a survey to local people which has received a tremendous response and Stephen Kearney has been busy sifting through the responses and taking up their local issues. It is very clear from talking to local people that they want an MP who will be a strong voice for local people, in Stephen Kearney we have that person."

Related Link:

Copy of letter sent by Stephen Kearney to Councillor John Howell.