Ayr by-election 2000

'A consensus in Scotland exists to implement the Cubie Report. We supported a contribution from wealthy graduates, not a payback scheme for every graduate. This deal serves the politicians, but not students.' Richard Baker, President of the National Union of Students in Scotland, 25 th January 2000.

Liberal Democrats Select Candidate For Ayr By-Election

Liberal Democrat Press Release

In a statement, Jim Wallace MSP, Leader of the Scottish Liberal Democrats said:

"Stuart Ritchie is an excellent candidate - an extremely talented individual, with strong local links who will fight a first-class campaign.

"I have no doubt Stuart will give 100% commitment in this by-election - he will offer a strong and positive alternative to the parties which have failed to deliver for the people of Ayr. As a resident of Ayr Stuart is very much in touch with the local electorate and what they want.

Stuart Ritchie added:

"I regret that the people of Ayr, having elected a Labour MSP who promised to do the job for four years, are being put through this by-election. However, it is my job to explain to the electorate that the only positive vote on the 16th March is a Liberal Democrat vote.

"Phil Gallie's decision not to stand as the Conservative candidate is a resounding vote of no confidence in his own party's chance of winning the seat.

"After all, Mr Gallie is on record as saying that if he were to stand as candidate it would be an indication of his confidence in the Tories chances of success.

"I also look forward to challenging the SNP candidate to explain how his party intends paying for the £2.311 billion of extra expenditure which they have so far committed themselves to since last May.

"The Scottish Liberal Democrats have, since the election of the Scottish Parliament negotiated an additional £80 million for education, a package of £40 million for Scotland's hard-pressed farmers and the abolition of Tuition Fees for Scotland's students. By electing me the people of Ayr will send a clear signal that their priorities are Education and Health.

"I challenge the other parties to follow my lead and make this by-election a positive experience and discuss the policies which are important to the people of Ayr."

Notes to editors:

BIOGRAPHICAL DETAILS

Name: Stuart Ritchie
Date of Birth: 28/11/75
Education: HND in Communications, Telford College
Occupation: Student at Paisley University, Ayr Campus
Political Career: Local Election Agent, 1995
NUS Student Representative, 1998
Candidate, Cunninghame South, 1999
Other Interests: Football, church

3 rd February 2000