I enjoyed my first hustings this week!

As a new candidate, hustings are a new experience for me and over the last week I've taken part in four of them to debate the key issues of this election with the other candidates in the district and give you the opportunity to get to know me better.

I'm not one for nervousness anyway and actually I thoroughly enjoyed the experience.

The debates took place at Hempnall, Framingham Earl High School and the Langley School Loddon and I also took part in a live radio debate at South Norfolk Youth Alliance Radio.

I was delighted to see how many people came to the hustings and I hope that the excellent turnout was in part due to the massive surge in popularity of the Lib Dems that has really got people interested in this election and given us all the hope of real change.

Questions asked included voting reform and cleaner politics, policies vs personality, immigration, religion, the environment and each party's proposed spending cuts.

You can see the Lib Dems stance on all these issues in our manifesto which can be found at www.libdems.org.uk or post a comment to me here and I will be happy to discuss with you.

Thank you to all those who turned out to take part in the hustings. It's not long now until 6 May and I hope I can count on your vote!

I'm backing the pub

In an area like South Norfolk village facilities are vital for those who do not have a car, for everyday essentials and easy access to goods and services which help communities to thrive. That's why "I'm backing the pub" campaign by the British Beer and Pub Association. See video for details.

Radio Norfolk's election debate

I was delighted to be invited to take part in this morning's election debate on Radio Norfolk. Please let me know what you thought by voting below. Thank you.

Who won the debate? Who won the BBC Radio Norfolk election debate Tues 20 April 2010 Liberal Democrat candidate Jacky Howe Conservative candidate Chloe Smith Labour candidate Peter Smith Green candidate Adrian Ramsey view results

Debate!!

Last night, I took time out of my campaign to sit down and watch the three way debate between Nick Clegg and .....now, remind me!

An outright win for Nick - I didn't need to see the various polls, it was obvious that - given a fair electoral system, this man is a Prime Minister and Vince Cable is a Chancellor.

Come on people - this is your chance - to vote Liberal Democrat IS NOT A WASTED VOTE - you will make a real difference this time. Help me spring a big surprise on the Tories in South Norfolk and, who knows, the needs of vulnerable people in South Norfolk might get the attention they deserve!

My personal contract with the voters of South Norfolk

I want to be the voice for change and fairness and fight for the issues facing those who live and work here.

I feel the country has been let down by Labour and that South Norfolk in particular would suffer under the Tories who are out of touch with the ordinary person on the street. Their policies are all about looking after their wealthy supporters. Their stranglehold on South Norfolk must be ended.

The following is my personal contract with the people of South Norfolk and, whether you vote for me or not, please hold me to it if I am elected as your Member of Parliament.


I will put local people first.

I will be there to help, listen to your concerns and stand up for our community. I will be a strong voice for South Norfolk.

I will continue to campaign for better care for the elderly, disabled and vulnerable.

I will fight against education budget cuts to ensure every child gets a fair start in life.

I want more of South Norfolk’s empty homes brought into use to cut down the massive waiting list for housing.

I will fight to protect our precious countryside – there are many sources of renewable energy that can be harnessed as an alternative to wind farms.

I will stand alongside the county’s fire fighters in protesting against service cuts.

I will fight for better infrastructure, in particular road and rail, as I believe this is essential to our future economic prosperity and I want to see better job opportunities and our market towns thriving again.

I will be honest, open and available to talk to.

I will not make promises I cannot keep.

I will publish every expense I claim.

Our manifesto

Follow this link to see the Lib Dem's manifesto in detail. I'll be publishing my own pledges for the people of South Norfolk shortly so watch this space...

http://www.libdems.org.uk/our_manifesto.aspx

Next stop Long Stratton

My 'Ask Howe' Roadshow will be in Long Stratton this Saturday (10 April) from 9.30am until 1pm. I would really love to meet you and listen to your views so if you spot me, please stop for a chat! We're hoping to set up near The Swan on the main road - look for the green gazebo!