Make it Happen

12.59.32pm UTC (GMT +0000) Thu 31st Jul 2008

Nick Clegg has launched a major policy document called 'Make it Happen'.

A major new document setting out Liberal Democrat vision and values has been launched by Nick Clegg. Called 'Make it Happen', the new document will form a major centrepiece of debate at September's Liberal Democrat party conference.

Nick Clegg, Lib Dem leader, said "Families are overstretched. Things look bad for the economy. Schools and hospitals don't seem to be improving rapidly enough despite all the extra money and hard work by staff."

"Labour and the Tories cut people out. They're so used to being in power every few years they don't listen and they don't deliver. Our party is different. It is a voice for people who want something different from politicians. Our party is full of people who are so much more than just politicians."

"When we promise to make Britain fairer, we are talking about big tax cuts for those who are struggling - paid for by more taxation on those who can afford it; an end to the unfair and regressive council tax; and extra investment in the poorest children from their first day at pre-school right through to university."

"When we promise a greener future for Britain, we have detailed plans to invest in clean energy instead of nuclear and get people out of their cars and into quality public transport."

"When we promise to make politicians listen to people, we will introduce fairer elections in which every vote, everywhere, really counts, and counts equally, and we'll end the influence of big money in politics."

"When we promise to stand up for British freedoms, we are proposing a Freedom Law to get the government off people's backs, and new privacy protection for our personal data. We won't just be fair weather defenders of civil liberties when it is convenient or provides a good TV stunt."

"So, 'Make it Happen' isn't just a dry shopping list of policies. It is a fundamental statement about how we Liberal Democrats believe in different things, and how we do things differently from the other two, tired old, parties."

"The proposals in this document offer people - individuals, families and communities - the power to make a better life for themselves. We know that if we want Britain to be fairer we are the only ones who will make it happen. Labour can't. The Tories won't. We can and we will."

"Together, let's make it happen."

Read the full version of 'Make it Happen' at:

www.libdems.org.uk