Bedford Borough Liberal Democrats have called for action to end the 'digital divide' which sees many rural residents suffer slow broadband connection speeds. Residents in Shortstown have reported slow and unreliable internet connection speeds for their properties, even in some cases where nearby streets have no such problems.
Liberal Democrat Shadow Chancellor Vince Cable came to Bedford yesterday and visited major local employer Wells and Young's Brewery with Liberal Democrat Mayoral candidate Dave Hodgson.
On Wednesday evening Wootton Upper School hosted a debate attended by all the candidates. My main message was that I want Bedford Borough to be a great place to live work and do business.
Visiting the Wells and Young Brewery in Queens Park brought back memories of the time I had a summer job at the brewery. Lib Dem Shadow Chancellor Vince Cable MP and I met with vice-Chair Mr Tom Wells and Finance Director Mr Justin Fillimore. We discussed issues affecting the industry before touring the brewery. Vince said that it was very useful to hear the views of Bedford's largest private employer.
Liberal Democrat Leader Nick Clegg visited Bedford last night and held a 'Town Hall' meeting at the Harpur Suite. The open public meeting was chaired by Liberal Democrat Mayoral Candidate Dave Hodgson, and was attended by a large audience of local people. Clegg tackled a vast range of questions head on, and was widely praised after the meeting for his open, straight-talking approach.
The Harpur Suite in Bedford town centre was bustling on Tuesday evening. Lib Dem leader Nick Clegg MP held one of his 'town hall' meetings. I chaired the event and it was interesting both to hear what Nick had to say, but also the questions and points of view from the public. Nick tackled every question asked of him directly, with no spin or evasion.
