However, although I’ve never met the Liberal Democrat candidate in the byelection; my comments were about the Conservative councillors in the ward (as I’ve seen demonstrated at public meetings) of doing their best to get things done and changed for the better (which I’d hope all parties want).

Examples would be over the Social Services charging “overcharging” policy, saving the libraries from the axe and many other things.

My point about difficult circumstances is because the ward is represented now by two (not three) councillors; as well as the extra work that comes because of a byelection..

Compared to some councillors of other parties (no names mentioned) who will no doubt not stand in May or lose their seats; the public realise that one party on the Wirral took a principled stand on issues that matter to them such as libraries and the Strategic Asset Review. The Lab/LD administration did eventually change their policy; but seemed to think they could just tell the public about their “vision” and they had to accept it.

It is this view in the parties of the administration that they tell their party members (and councillors) and public to either accept what they’re doing, don’t ask too many questions and accept a small clique making the decisions and imposing the party whip that has led to a number of Liberal Democrats (such as Rob Earl, Oliver Adams etc) switching to the Conservative Party.

This does worry me; as it is something that unless dealt with will damage the electoral prospects of both Liberal Democrats and Labour come the General Election (and local election) next year.

I also notice (through the use of Residents Surveys) in other wards how the Conservative Party is trying to focus on what local people want.

If anything I’ve been learning from your techniques and trying to apply (some of them in a limited way) locally, as to be honest if someone else has a good idea of any party; you might as well use it!