Labour's poverty of ambition makes them the new conservatives

12.00.00am GMT Fri 10th Nov 2006

Commenting on policy proposals emerging from the Labour Special Conference in Cardiff, Welsh Liberal Democrat Assembly leader Mike German branded Rhodri Morgan's party "the new conservatives".

Mr German said: "Labour's proposals show a party that has run out of ideas. Their poverty of ambition is making them Wales' most conservative party - defending the status quo, rewarding their backers in the unions, and putting a priority on placating Labour's local government dinosaurs.

"They've made great play of giving the Assembly extra powers, yet - as far as I can see - only two of their policy proposals would need to use them. And both of those are re-treads of bills they asked for and didn't get from Westminster in recent Queen's speeches. They need Assembly Measures to deliver these, because of their lack of influence in Westminster.

"Welsh Liberal Democrats supported giving the Assembly extra powers - but not just to leave them sitting on a shelf. We want the powers, so we can give people more say over what happens in their communities, to make Wales greener and more prosperous.

"Where are Labour's ideas for the new powers? Where is the vision to take Wales forward? The people of Wales deserves better."

Notes:

Labour's proposals to suspend the right to buy in areas of pressure and introduce a statutory registration scheme for holiday cottages would require Assembly Measures, both have been included in previous Assembly bids to Westminster for new laws.

The Welsh Liberal Democrats will be launching their pre-manifesto at the end of the month.