Mayor Election 2016 / News
Kay Barnard chosen as Lib Dem mayor candidate
Dr Kay Barnard has been unveiled as the Lib Dem candidate to run for mayor next May.
Barnard, a professor of bio-chemistry and one-time MEP candidate, was joined by national party leader Tim Farron for a launch event on Sunday.
She used the platform to reinforce a Lib Dem commitment to introduce a referendum on whether or not to keep the mayoral system.
“If elected, I will work with the councillors to deliver a referendum on whether or not we keep the mayoral system in place, if it is clear that that is what people in Bristol want,” she said.
She added: “The problems residents were facing in 2012 have not been solved with the introduction of the mayoral system.
“It is only by voting for your hard-working Lib Dem councillors and for a Lib Dem mayor that we can deliver real solutions together that can make a real and lasting difference to the lives of everyone in the city.”
Great to hear from #bristolmayor candidate @Kay_Barnard and party leader @timfarron pic.twitter.com/xEkwSXB2K9
— Bristol Lib Dems (@BristolLibDems) September 13, 2015
She said Bristol was still struggling with major problems like traffic, despite its green credentials.
“Despite being the European Green Capital this year the city still suffers from traffic congestion and poor public transport. Housing is expensive. There have to be imaginative alternatives. Getting people on???side will be the key.”
Farron added: “Kay is an energetic, enthusiastic and tireless campaigner who wants to make a difference and give local residents in Bristol a voice at City Hall.
“She knows and understands the needs of the people who live here. Not only will she stand up for all communities and people from all backgrounds, she will also get the best deal from government too.”
Barnard, who was born in Bristol, has held posts as a member of the management board of the University of Bristol and a non-executive director of an NHS Primary Care Trust.
Labour announced Marvin Rees as their candidate on Friday, while a decision on the Conservative’s choice is expected on Monday evening.
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