New Leader, Same Objective (07/01/03)

‘Bringing better value and more responsive local government to the people of Somerset are my main objectives’ said Christopher Wolverson, new leader of the Conservative Group on the County Council.John Smeaton, the previous leader, resigned on medical advice.

‘In the two years leading up to 2005, when we will resume leadership of this county, we have to keep the current Liberal Democrat administration on its toes.We must ensure they focus on bringing better services to Somerset’s residents, rather than wasting money pursuing their own irrelevant hobby-horses,’ said Christopher yesterday evening, after his election to his new role.

‘In the Conservative Group we have members with considerable managerial and technical experience.I am determined that this depth of expertise is dedicated to the benefit of all who live in Somerset.The recent Conservative-led procurement Commission, which identified efficiency savings of £5 million per year, shows what we can achieve.I am committed to developing closer links with our MPs and District councillors.

‘The Conservative Group is a credible and effective alternative to the current Liberal Democrats.’

Notes to Editors

Christopher Wolverson has represented the Lydeard Division since he won a by-election in 1999.He and his wife have lived in Halse since 1995, when he retired from the Army.They have two girls – one working in London and one in her last year at Bristol University.Whilst on the County Council he has served on the Executive Board and Regulation Committee.Since the election in 2001, he has been the Conservative Group’s spokesman on Education and Life Long Learning.