Lib Dems start search for new Parliamentary Candidate

4.45.15pm BST (GMT +0100) Fri 9th Oct 2009

Following Lib Dems PPC Sally Morgan's decision to stand down as PPC the selection process for a new candidate has been initiated.

In her letter of resignation Cllr. Morgan stated the following:

"It is with regret and for both family and financial reasons that I have decided to stand down as Liberal Democrat Parliamentary Candidate for Central Devon. I would like to thank you for your help and support over the last 2 years.

I am very lucky to have had the support of my family and friends but it is no longer fair nor possible to burden my family with the personal and financial pressures of being a candidate.

I will continue to be a Teignbridge District Councillor and to support my Liberal Democrat colleagues at the next election."

Sally's resignation raises many issues particularly the financial difficulties of being a PPC in a large rural constituency like Central Devon (unless of course you are a millionaire or backed up by wealthy sponsors). We have heard a lot about MPs expenses in the media witch hunts but very little about the costs and pressures involved for those embarking on a long campaign with no guaranteed financial or any other rewards for their sacrifices.

Uncertainty over the length of the parliamentary term also makes it difficult for any PPC to assess their level of financial commitment to the cause. Not a problem if you have unlimited funds but a big disincentive if you are putting yourself forward as a potential candidate and is one of the reasons why Lib Dems support fixed term parliaments.