Local Lib Dems speak out at conference

7.04.10pm GMT Wed 8th Mar 2006

Chelmsford Lib Dem Graham Pooley spoke at conference

Eleven Liberal Democrats from Chelmsford attended last weekend's party conference in Harrogate. One representative, Graham Pooley, spoke in the NHS policy debate. Graham spoke passionately about the waste of opportunity, the pain and loss, and the financial cost to the NHS and the economy that active drug and behavioural addictions bring.

Chelmsford Lib Dem John Masek(centre) attended a training session at the conference

"So many face lack of resources and little availability of timely diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation," he said. Graham made a call for early intervention, and "prevention rather than cure" - both of which would save the NHS and social services money and be more effective in the long term.

Other local Lib Dems (including John Masek, below right) attended a range of training sessions.

The party was in upbeat mood and new leader Ming Campbell was welcomed to his post.

More information about the conference including the Leader's speech is on the Liberal Democrat website: http://www.libdems.org.uk/conference/