Greens back Martin

12.24.00pm GMT Wed 10th Mar 2010

CHELTENHAM MP Martin Horwood has been publicly supported by the Green Party for the upcoming election. The Greens will not stand a candidate against Martin because of his impressive record on environmental issues.

John Heywood, speaking for the Greens, said:

"This year Cheltenham Green Party is planning to concentrate on campaigning in the Borough Elections, rather than stand a candidate in the General Election.

After a serious debate, members have decided to back Lib Dem MP, Martin Horwood. They reason that during his time in parliament he has worked hard for causes that are close to green aspirations and policies. And so they urge all green-thinking electors to vote for him.

The sort of actions that have impressed the Greens are:

• His work to strengthen the Climate Change Act.

• His efforts to add feedback tariffs for home electricity generation into the Energy Bill.

• His opposition to the third runway at Heathrow.

• His promotion of affordable housing rather than urban extensions.

• His strong stand on animal welfare issues.

• His backing for green industries, which will be needed as our economy becomes more localised.

There is no need for us to look to make a change from a hard-working MP who is committed to environmental causes. "

Martin Horwood MP said:

"I'm absolutely delighted to have the backing of Cheltenham Green Party at the coming election. I know many members of the Green Party locally and nationally and we have often campaigned on the same issues. We agree about the need for action on climate change, the need to protect our natural environment both locally and around the world and the need for political reform.

This also reflects the fact that under the current electoral system, Cheltenham is a two-horse race between myself and the Conservative candidate. Following local election wins and defections from the Conservative side, this is yet another boost for our campaign. I'm increasingly confident that we will win but it will be close and I certainly welcome support from across traditional party divides."