Independent constituents sign petition calling for defeated Lib Dem MP to stand again

Quite remarkable news from Eastbourne, where a petition set up by an independent constituent calling for defeated Lib Dem MP Stephen Lloyd to stand again has run up hundreds of signatures already.

This isn’t a roll call of Lib Dem members and poster sites but rather the petition has been propelled by independent constituents who miss the hard work and dedication of Stephen:

The change.org petition has been set up by Eastbourne resident Scott Haffenden.

He said, “Stephen Lloyd has still not made up his mind whether to stand again for MP in Eastbourne and Willingdon.

“While in office he did amazingly well at bringing local issues to the forefront of the media and fought tirelessly for Eastbourne and still does.

“Let’s show Stephen he is wanted and still appreciated and help him to make up his mind to stand again.” [Eastbourne Herald]

As for Stephen Lloyd’s own future:

The 58-year-old says he has not yet decided whether he will throw his hat in the political ring at the next parliamentary elections, currently due to take place in 2020.

He maintains a strong presence in Eastbourne, has a home in Old Town, is a regular at various events and supporters say he still campaigns for local issues.

He currently works as a business development manager at a local firm…

“I’m absolutely bowled over by the support people are showing me from across our town with this petition,” he said.

“I do not know Mr Haffenden who put it up but it’s very kind of him to be so supportive of my time as Eastbourne’s MP and to even publicly state that he made a mistake by voting for my then opponent in the general election last year. Such candour is impressive…

“I won’t deny the petition is obviously a really positive sign that if I do decide to throw my cap in the ring it appears many residents in the town will rally around in support.”