Make it happen in Bedford

Following the launch of the "Make It Happen" vision and values paper at Liberal Democrat conference last week, Bedford and Kempston Liberal Democrats have launched a "Make It Happen in Bedford" statement.

These radical reforms, lowering taxes for those worst off - giving people that extra bit of freedom to help themselves - whilst not reneging on our promises of social justice, and green taxes to tackle climate change, are just what the people of Bedford need to overcome a growing division within our town.

The Health Observatory report on Bedford highlights the need for tax-cuts and people centred services to ensure that all get the same opportunities.

The report also showed us that in some wards, men are likely to die on average 7 years earlier than in less-deprived wards.

Henry Vann, Liberal Democrat parliamentary campaigner for Bedford and Kempston, said:

"The differences across Bedford are truly disturbing.

"Not only is the report shocking, but it shows that Bedford is in desperate need of the fairer taxes that the Liberal Democrats have promised in "Make It Happen".

"By offering tax reductions for those less well off, and hitting those cheating the system hard, we will ensure that we can offer better services and support for those in need but still reduce the overall tax burden.

"In turn, Bedford would benefit from greater freedom and a stronger, fairer community - lets make it happen in Bedford."