As previously reported the National Liberal Party (NLP) withdrew its candidate at the forthcoming council by-election in South Hornchurch in favour of an Independent (but part of the coalition group -The Peoples Alliance). Following on so soon from the London Assembly elections it came as a surprise to find no less than nine candidates. Already the more serious ones have begun distributing leaflets: Labour (4), Conservative (3), BNP (2), and UKIP (1). Our activists have been busily helping the Independent candidate and his team with his own leaflet(s) (which includes an endorsement from our local NLP Chairman).

Sadly some neo-Nazis have sought to attack Michael Burton on account merely of his skin colour. They have attacked the NLP for supporting his campaign. To his credit the British National Party candidate has not involved himself in this kind of naked race hate and has campaigned on the issues. The NLP message is clear. We support Michael because we believe he is the best man for the job. We will intensify our campaigning on his behalf in response to these embittered, twisted misfits.

A popular Community activist (and the only local candidate) Michael Deon Burton has an excellent chance of winning the seat. All  local NLP supporters have been urged to lend him support. As usual all the establishment parties are jumping on Michael’s bandwagon i.e. opposition to over-development (of greater local importance than national policy). Of course their concern prior to the election was noticeable by its absence and will doubtless fade again after. Hopefully voters are now wise to this establishment cycle of interest during elections and disinterest before and after.