David Morris, the Conservative candidate for Morecambe and Lunesdale, has received support from an unusual source. Lembit Öpik, who was an MP and the former Leader of the Welsh Liberal Democrats, has paid a visit to Mr Morris’s campaign, highlighting credentials as one of the ‘rare breed of politician who cares about people and freedom.’
Lembit is Director of Comms & Public Affairs for the Motorcycle Action Group (MAG) – the leading riders’ rights organisation, dedicated to the interests of motorcyclists and scooter riders across the UK.
‘Mr Morris has supported the cause of bikers and scooter riders by taking up the case for more bike parking in Lancaster and Morecambe,’ added Lembit. ‘He’s also been extremely keen on the case to allow bikes in bus lanes as a national policy. He’s a member of MAG and we’re pleased to give him our backing.’
David Morris said, ‘I’m pleased Lembit has been able to visit Lancaster and Morecambe to add MAG’s voice to my work in support of local riders. I’ve spent time at Honda Lancaster to back this important local employer. They’ve been excellent at keeping me posted. While successes like the Link Road help everyone, riders have to an extent been ignored as part of the transport and congestion solutions in Morecambe and Lunesdale. Thousands of residents use two wheels to get around. Working with MAG, I’m dedicated to defending their views and needs. For me freedom is a touchstone, and riders’ rights are a practical example of where, on this issue, the rubber literally hits the road. I’ll always welcome riders anytime I can be of assistance, whether it’s to fix dangerous manhole covers or get that parking issue sorted out. I’m here to help.’
‘Some may be surprised that a former Lib Dem MP is backing a Conservative candidate,’adds Lembit. ‘Actually, it’s simpler than that. He believes in liberty and riders’ rights.MAG believes in liberty and riders’ rights. My duty is to do what’s right for our members and the one and a half million highly active riders in the UK. It’s natural for us to work with allies such as David, because he’ll be another powerful voice for biking and scooter riders in Parliament.’
Lembit added, ‘MAG is not party political, in that we don’t back a party. However, we work with any MP who is genuinely interested in the rights of the thousands of bikers in their constituency. David is clearly one of those politicians.