Political

34% swing not quite enough for Lib Dems to win in unusual Tuesday by-election

Polling station sign - CC0 Public Domain

By-elections are usually on Thursdays but they do not have to be, hence this by-election tonight:

Not often your vote goes up by over 40% but that is not quite enough to win… congratulations to Roger Mullenger and the team on getting so close. There were just nine votes in it (236 to 227).

Here’s how Roger summarised his case to the electorate:

As a long serving councillor and former chairman of Liss Parish Council I am putting myself forward as your Liberal Democrat candidate for this very important role on the District Council. For I believe that I have the right skills, abilities and experience to represent the broad range of interests of local residents.

My family and I have lived in Liss for more than 20 years. My background is in information technology (IT) and I run a small and successful IT company formed 15 years ago with a colleague. Working for a variety of large and small companies has given me an extensive insight and understanding of the needs of industry and businesses.

I was a Liss parish councillor for 12 years, including three years as Chairman and am now playing a very active role in the development of the Liss Neighbourhood Plan.

I am passionate about our local countryside and committed to protecting the environment, playing an active role in conservation organisations and as a voluntary nature reserve warden. I am on two South Downs National Park committees, one of which I chair, and in my spare time I lead walks for the local U3A.

My wife has worked for Citizens Advice and now volunteers at the Crossover Youth Centre. This has helped me understand both the very real problems that people suffer throughout our community and the needs and wishes of young people and teenagers.

I am acutely aware that the recent referendum result will create yet further changes within our community.

If elected, I will do my utmost to maintain and improve the level of services provided within East Hampshire.

 

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