New Tory Candidate

1.17.50pm GMT Tue 16th Dec 2003

Vincent Cable's comments on new Tory candidate Vincent Cable said he "welcomed Paul Maynard to the area and looked forward to meeting him and debating with him".

"But I am very surprised at the way the Conservatives have made their choice. They have dropped Nick Longworth, who was an intelligent and personable candidate last time, and have passed over experienced local councillors who know something about the area and about local issues".

"They failed to select a candidate by June 2002, which was the target date for candidates for winnable seats and have only managed to select a candidate at this third attempt".

"I have no intention of being complacent and will defend the seat vigorously. But the Conservatives don't exactly create the impression of being serious".