In readiness for elections to the new Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole unitary authority in 2019, two more candidates have this week joined our local election team. We're delighted to welcome Innes Thomson and Alfreda Barton to our ranks.

As we expand our team of prospective council candidates and ward representatives we'd like to introduce you to Gary Mitchell; a new voice for West Southbourne.

"I have been resident in this ward since 1992, and I know the area well, having seen it change and evolve.

Over recent days Bournemouth has been making national news headlines for the wrong reasons.

First there was the death of 65 year old Kevin Filsell, a well known homeless man who died whilst sleeping under a flyover in the town's Braidley Road car park. We are awaiting the outcome of the Coroner's Inquest into his death as there have been suggestions in the press that the actions of council officials or contracters may have contributed to his death.

This was swiftly followed by widespread coverage of the council's installation of spikes and metal bars in places homeless people might attempt to settle down.

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Registering for a postal vote is the best way to ensure your voice is heard should something unforseen happen and you are unable to get to a polling station on election day.

Commenting on the intervention from CBI Director-General, Carolyn Fairbairn, today which highlighted the importance of the customs union to British businesses, Liberal Democrat Brexit spokesperson Tom Brake said: 

“This is an important intervention from the CBI, and pours yet more cold water on the government’s idea that they can rustle up a trade deal that in anyway compares to the economic benefits of being in the EU and maintain the red lines they have set.

Responding to news that small businesses affected by Carillion's liquidation will receive support from a number of banks, Lorely Burt, Liberal Democrat Small Business Spokesperson said:
 
"It is essential that small businesses do not bear the brunt of the Conservative government's inaction and Carillion's collapse. While the Liberal Democrats welcome the emergency measures that have been put in place, small businesses must continue to be supported in the longer-term. 

This week we witnessed the eviction of several rough-sleepers from a site in the centre of Bournemouth while a great many homes have been sitting empty for years.
Research by the Liberal Democrats has revealed the extent of this problem nationally.

Nearly 200 ambulance delays in Bournemouth so far this winter

198 patients in our area have faced waits of half-an-hour of more in ambulances outside A&E so far this winter, Liberal Democrat analysis has revealed. Of these, 48 faced waits of over an hour.