A CONSERVATIVE who once stood against John Redwood as an independent candidate in Wokingham is once again urging people to vote differently, accusing the incumbent of being ‘entrenched in an ideology’ while failing to stand up for constituents.
Mark Ashwell has switched to the Liberal Democrats and is backing former Wokingham council leader Clive Jones in the forthcoming general election battle for the new parliamentary seat.
“Within our community and local politics, I’ve always tried to work with anyone who has the community’s interests at heart and can make things happen,” he said.
“In the past I have tried to do so with John Redwood but found this impossible.
“He is entrenched in an ideology and system that doesn’t represent his constituents.
“He spends his time pontificating whilst ducking the opportunity to work for his constituents.
During his time as a borough councillor, Mr Ashwell held a number of key posts including executive member for planning and community, Wokingham town’s regeneration project, and also a stint overseeing children’s services.
He is also a passionate champion for the borough, both through his business and his support for Wokingham and Emmbrook FC, where he is its chairman.
It is with this in mind that he has defected from the Conservatives, and is now backing the Liberal Democrat candidate.
“Wokingham needs a representative in parliament who reflects the views of the majority of residents and stands up for them. I believe Clive Jones is that person with a track record of delivering and I’ll be working hard to encourage others to ‘Get Behind Clive’,” he said.
The news has been welcomed by Mr Jones, who is still a borough council and has a role on the ruling executive overseeing the business portfolio.
“I am delighted that Mark has joined the Lib Dems and is supporting me so strongly to be Wokingham’s next member of parliament,” he said.
“I have known Mark for a number of years and always thought he was much more of a Lib Dem than a Conservative.
“Mark joins many others who are telling us every day that they can no longer support the Conservatives or John Redwood. We warmly welcome Mark and look forward to working with him on local and national issues.”
