CAROL WOODS PLEDGES FAIR DEAL FOR ARMED FORCES

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Mon 28th Sep 2009

Carol Woods, Lib Dem Parliamentary campaigner for Durham, has joined with The Royal British Legion to pledge to do her bit for the British Armed Forces family.

Carol met with representatives from The Royal British Legion at the recent Liberal Democrat party conference in Bournemouth where she was presented with a copy of the Legion's manifesto for the next general election.

The manifesto sets out priorities for the next Government to improve conditions for the British Armed Forces past and present and their families. It encourages MPs and prospective parliamentary candidates (PPCs) to "do their bit" for Service Personnel and their families, the bereaved, veterans and dependants.

Kevin Shinkwin, the Legion's Head of Public Affairs, said, "We're really grateful to Carol Woods for making the time to meet with us and listen to our concerns. Our message to every candidate standing at the general election is very simple: 'It's time to do your bit'.

"The entire Armed Forces family needs the support of politicians from all parties," he added. "Our manifesto outlines practical ways the next government can help, and we hope all the parties will give it serious consideration".

Carol Woods said, "I was delighted to meet with The Royal British Legion. They have an important role to play in highlighting the needs of the whole Armed Forces family. I have pledged to do my bit and would encourage everyone to do the same by visiting the general election manifesto website - www.timetodoyourbit.org.uk - to find out more.

"The Liberal Democrats have been calling on the Government to provide a fair deal for our troops. A quarter of all those serving in the armed forces earn less than a new recruit police officer and that cannot be right. Our troops are being short-changed by Labour and I'm more than happy to do my bit to try and change that."