Robinson and Clegg put fairness at the heart of the Liberal Democrat manifesto

9.49.00pm GMT Mon 11th Jan 2010

Chelmsford Lib Dem Stephen Robinson welcomes Nick Clegg to the town

Fairness is the value that connects everything the Liberal Democrats want to achieve and will be at the heart of the Party's election manifesto, according to Lib Dem leader Nick Clegg, speaking today. Chelmsford campaigner Stephen Robinson (aiming to become the local MP) explained that the Lib Dems have four priorities for a fairer Britain: fair taxes; a fair start for every child; fair, clean and local politics; and a fair, green economy with jobs that last.

Stephen Robinson added, "People in Chelmsford have been let down by their politicians and are crying out for REAL change. The Liberal Democrats have consistently been crystal clear in their manifestos about what can and cannot be afforded. This one will be no different. A manifesto that is short, direct and to the point will set a clear direction.

"We will introduce fairer taxes by closing loopholes for the richest, introducing a tax on mansions and tax cuts of £700 for everyone else.

"Children in Chelmsford schools will get extra cash to help reduce class sizes, improve discipline and develop one-to-one tuition.

"We would also give you the right to sack your MP. The Liberal Democrats are the only party committed to real change of our political system, flushing out big money and corrupt donors and reducing the number of MPs by 150.

"And we will rebuild the economy in every part of Britain in a way that promotes green technology and creates lasting jobs. We will put an end to casino banking, bring back competition and support local entrepreneurs to make sure Chelmsford businesses can find the money they need to grow.

"The coming months are a crucial time for politics and I will be using them to focus on these four priorities and delivering real change for Chelmsford."

Read the full policy statement and see a short film from Nick Clegg here: http://is.gd/65Kei

In his speech this morning (11 January), Leader of the Liberal Democrats Nick Clegg said:

"David Cameron and Gordon Brown are playing the politics of the airbrush and the focus group. One doesn't know what he believes. The other doesn't know what to do with the power he clings to so desperately.

"I believe the country wants something different. The Liberal Democrats are different. We offer credibility where it's needed. And hope for our common future."

Read the rest of Nick Clegg's speech here: http://is.gd/65J6c