Feb 10, 2009
Martin Salter’s plan to step down an admission of defeat
Reacting to news that Martin Salter is standing down at the next election, Reading West Liberal Democrat parliamentary spokesman, Patrick Murray, commented:
“This is an admission of defeat by Reading Labour. Martin has been a central figure on the scene in Reading politics for 25 years. His decision shows that Labour do not believe they can win in Reading West. If local people across Reading do not want a Tory MP then there is only one choice- the Liberal Democrats.”
Patrick continued: “Martin has worked hard over the years and we wish him the best for his future. But local people must not be left in the lurch for the next 18 months. Reading West deserves a full-time MP. We’re ready for an election.”
Cllr Gareth Epps, leader of the Liberal Democrat group commented “Martin Salter’s influence within Reading Civic Centre has certainly been considerable – and remained so long after he stepped down as a councillor.
The timing of his announcement signals even more clearly that things are changing in Reading. An era of overwhelming Labour control has come to an end. Martin was Labour’s best chance of holding the Reading West constituency. This sends a clear message to Reading voters that if you don’t want the Conservatives, vote Liberal Democrat.
Martin’s work for many people had become overshadowed by internal fighting within Reading Labour Party in recent years. In part this reflects the more tolerant views of Reading’s diverse communities, which the Labour Government rejected all too often. The fight to see who succeeds Martin Salter will not be pretty.
Whatever people’s view of Martin, everyone will agree that Reading politics are going to be very different. It will be interesting, to say the least, to see what he does next.”
