Lib Dem leadership contender has given an exclusive interview for Welsh Ramblings, and while I'm not a Lib Dem supporter, I'd like to thank Jenny for returning the answers so promptly.
Why did you enter politics?
I've always been a committed Liberal/Lib Dem. But like many, I got involved locally. I know its a cliché to say 'to make a difference' but I did want to change my area for the better and my involvement grew from there and my horizons widened
What motivated you to join the Liberal Democrats?
It was never going to be any other party. The basic philosophy of personal freedom, empowerment, environmentalism, with a commitment to look after the vulnerable. This chimed with my own beliefs.
Who are your political hero/ines?
Shirley Williams. If she had been PM instead of Thatcher, people would view women in politics very differently and Britain would be a better place.
If you could reverse just one policy being pursued by the One Wales coalition government what would it be?
The lack of priority for core services. My opposition to gimmicks is well stated. In tough economic times, priorities have to be carefully chosen. It's that or the centralisation agenda being pursued.
Why should Lib Dem members vote for you in the leadership contest?
I have stated my case for reform of the party and ideas to make us more distinctive at length. I believe I have the vision for Wales, the courage to take us into government and the experience of fighting campaigns and winning us seats. They know what I have to offer, and it's down to them to decide.
How would you define liberalism?
Giving people the most possible power over their lives on the understanding that they must not use that power to harm or undermine their fellow citizen.
Which AM, from outside the Liberal Democrat group, do you admire the most and why?
There are some talented people in the Assembly and this is not always realised by the public. Its tough to pick one, but David Melding always impresses me as a communicator. His speeches are always based on a combination of strong oratory and principle, coupled with great humour.
If the One Wales coalition came to an end tomorrow, would you consider forming an alternative government and if so what policies would you make a priority when forming a new government?
Yes I would of course. There is no point being in politics if you don't want to achieve your aims.
It's not possible to pick one single policy but we would have to negotiate a programme based on strong Liberal Democrat ideas. This is of course dependent on the agreement of the party.
How would you like your political career to be remembered?
I hope I remember it fondly. It's down to others to decide how they remember me .
You are stranded on a desert island, what is the one thing that you would miss most?
Curry!
Sexism and the BBC
3 hours ago
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4 comments:
What a hoot that interview was!
Old Battery Acid Randerson trying to put on an acceptable face, when we all know very different!
This woman is a Tory-loving opportunist, who would let the Tories in through the back door tomorrow.
Here she is presenting herself as a moderate when infact she is Tory in sheep's clothing.
Her campaign has not been about politics or vision. She has done little else but smear her very capable opponent from day one of this campaign with all the innuendo about Kirsty emanting from her camp.
Randerson has had her shot at power and she has failed miserably as being a driver for change.
I think she has got a bloody nerve standing given her pathetic record in Welsh politics.
Kirsty is the only one who can save the party - she has vision, she has hope, she is a 'can do' politician with years on her side and she can give a fresh and much needed impetus to the Lib Dems.
Randerson is a has-been with backward views that will appeal to no one outside of Cardiff!
I say, concede defeat now Jenny and save yourself the embarrassment of losing to a far superior candidate.
And while she is at it, why doesn't she address the specualtion about her real future plans in Welsh politics.
If the rumours sweeping the party are to be believed, on losing this election, Randerson will announce to her local party fairly soon that she is infact going to stand down at the next Assembly elections! So much for her committment to the future of this great party!
Someone suggested she was going to open a charm school in Cardiff on retirement - I find that just too hard believe - don't you?!
Isn't that comment both unnecessarily vicious and ageist?
Amazing lines from an insider. The accusation of smearing is reversed.
Randerson is educated and the best candidate. Kirsty Williams will have her day. Disaster for Lib Dems if it is now.
I agree with Lenin Cymru.
If these comments are reflective of KW's supporters God help us if she is elected.
She should ask that her supporters behave or resign membership
I vote Peter Black
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