Former Conservative MP backs Stephen Lloyd

4.58.37pm GMT Fri 22nd Jan 2010

Former Conservative MP and Meads resident Mr Ernle Money CBE, has publicly announced that he will be supporting Stephen Lloyd to be the next MP for Eastbourne & Willingdon.

Mr Money said: "I have been a proud member of the Conservative Party all my adult life and remain so. Unfortunately, though, I find it impossible to continue to support our current MP. I've been increasingly driven to the conclusion, over a number of years, that Mr Waterson is no longer the right person to represent the Eastbourne constituency. I remain a dedicated member of the Conservative Party nationally, but feel Mr Waterson does not represent the Conservative values I hold dear.

He added: "Consequently I have decided to nominate and support Stephen Lloyd locally as my view, shared by many others, is that he will prove to be a dedicated, open and hardworking member of parliament for the Eastbourne constituency. Mr Lloyd will bring to this important and prestigious job a set of personal values which, regretfully, I believe no longer apply to the current incumbent. I believe it is vital that the Eastbourne MP should live in the constituency with his family and work from there."

Stephen Lloyd said: "I am deeply honoured to receive Mr Money's personal support. I respect that Mr Money remains a Conservative. His support for me in Eastbourne & Willingdon is based on what is best for our Town rather than Party politics. I am determined, like Mr Money, to put the needs of local residents first before personal advantage."