LIBERAL DEMOCRATS IN THE NORTH EAST LAUNCH REGIONAL MANIFESTO

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Mon 19th Apr 2010

Liberal Democrats in the North East have launched their ideas for a fairer North East in Newcastle today.

Launching the party's regional manifesto, Lord David Shutt of Greetland, Lib Dem Chief Whip in the House of Lords, said:

"The Leaders' debate last week has shown that the Liberal Democrats are a credible political force. Here in The North East, the Liberal Democrats have been Labour's main challengers for years and have demonstrated that we are able to make a difference once in charge. Our principles set out in our manifesto nationally will also bring a very positive change to the region: our planned tax reform means that people in the North East will have an average £700 extra to spend each year; we will invest £175m into local schools with children from poorer backgrounds to make sure that each child gets a fair start in life; and we will invest in the North's manufacturing base by improving the region's infrastructure and refurbishing derelict ports which will enable giant offshore wind turbines to be produced here rather than abroad. The Liberal Democrats are committed to real change for the North East."

Carol Woods, Lib Dem PPC for Durham City, said:

"The Liberal Democrats are committed to making Britain a fairer place both nationally and regionally. Labour has failed to close the North-South divide and to give children in the region a fair chance in life. The Liberal Democrat plans for a greener Britain would bring real jobs to the North East and help families on low and middle incomes by raising the tax threshold to £10,000, putting £700 a year back into people's pockets."