Lib Dem candidate calls for Tories and Labour to set the record straight on key election issues

Liberal Democrat candidate for Stroud Max Wilkinson has today issued a list of challenges to his Labour and Tory opponents ahead of next week's general election.

Max is calling on David Drew and Neil Carmichael to front up on four key issues for voters: welfare cuts, equal rights, fox hunting and Brexit.

Welfare cuts

The Labour manifesto would see 7% cuts to the incomes of the poorest 10% of people in the country.

The Tory manifesto would see cuts of almost 10% to the incomes of the poorest 10%.

The figures come from the IFS, a respected independent think tank.

Max said: "Neither Tory nor Labour proposals would help the very poorest in society.

"The Labour Party is focusing on populist giveaways to middle class people who go to university and the Tories just want to cut taxes for the wealthiest.

"Only the Lib Dems would ensure the books aren't balanced on the backs of the poor."

Equal rights

In government the Lib Dems delivered equal marriage, enabling gay and lesbian people to achieve the same right to marry as straight couples for the first time.

Max said: "The Lib Dems have a strong record in government of promoting the rights of LGBTQ+ people.

"I know Stroud is a tolerant and accepting place that embraces everyone and it needs an MP who reflects that outlook rather than one with a questionable voting record."

Fox hunting

The hunting ban is the top item in the campaign inbox.

It is alleged that Conservative candidates across the county are receiving help from lobbyists associated to local hunting groups.

Max said: "The Conservatives need to be clear that they aren't taking campaign help now in exchange for a pro-hunt vote next time it gets into parliament.

"Polls show that people across rural and urban areas are against the repeal of the hunting ban and I know voters in Stroud would not look favourably upon any deal done between the local Tory party and the hunt lobby."

Brexit

Max said: "Stroud voted heavily to remain and I agree with the constituency's decision.

"I'd fight for a good deal with our European neighbours, to ensure we keep local jobs and boost our economy.

"In contrast, the Labour candidate has a eurosceptic voting record and the Tory candidate voted to give his Prime Minister a blank cheque for an extreme Brexit which would harm the economy and rip money away from public services

"I promise that if I'm elected as Stroud's next MP I won't change my mind on Europe and I'll do all it takes to make our local economy strong."