THE PEEL GROUP INVADES GUILDFORD

12.00.00am GMT Mon 11th Nov 2002

"The Liberal Democrats must change in order to overtake the Tories nationally, Guildford is an important watershed on that journey" was the message from Brendan Donelly, a former leading Tory when he came to Guildford on Saturday 9th November.

Sue Doughty complemented Brendan on his courage "I would hate to leave my party" she said "I know how much it must have cost you to leave yours, and I hope you found a warm welcome here".

Brendan, a linguist and the former Souther Eastern MEP said that he and other members of the Peel Group had found themselves surprisingly comfortable when they joined the Liberal Democrats. "But we want the Party to make an even stronger impact nationally and the Peel Group is devoting itself to helping the Liberal Democrats do just that".

The Peel Group was formed in 2001 and includes an eminent group of Tory MEPs and MPs who are leading work in research with businessmen and amongst academics to ensure that the Liberal Democrats surge towards power is firmly based.

The Evening in Shalford was called a 'Hot Potato' and there was fierce debate about what changes were needed. "Airing these difficult questions is an important part of our progress" said Sue Doughty. "I welcome this debate".