Lib Dems announce candidate to run for new Moray West, Nairn and Strathspey constituency seat
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The Liberal Democrats have announced their candidate for the upcoming general election for the newly-formed Moray West, Nairn and Strathspey constituency.
It was confirmed that Elgin-based game designer Neil Alexander will be representing the party in the run for the Westminster seat this year.
A rugby player with Moray RFC, Mr Alexander is the Lib Dem party leader for Moray West and was unanimously voted by local party members.
He will run against SNP's Graham Leadbitter – who is councillor for Elgin City South – as well as Moray Council leader Kathleen Robertson (Scottish Conservatives) and Euan Morrice from the Scottish Family Party.
Commenting on the announcement, he said: “We deserve so much better than the scandal-ridden Conservatives and SNP.
“At the heart of it, they are two sides of the same coin – always looking to divide people based on one political issue.
“It’s time for us to put our local priorities first, from Aviemore to Nairn, Lossiemouth to Ardersier, we need to be dealing with the problems we face in 2024, not focusing on the past. There is more that unites us than divides us.
“We have been campaigning on local issues that matter to our area, and that’s what you will get with a Lib Dem MP.”
Speaking to the Inverness Courier in December last year, Mr Alexander said that if he's elected he will focus on lobbying for the delivery of the Nairn Bypass and the dualling of the whole A96 as well as healthcare delivery – particularly maternity services.
He added that he was optimistic that the General Election will signify a big change.
“If you want an end to the constant division of the two nationalist parties, vote Liberal Democrat," he said.
“Only the Lib Dems have won in the new boundaries against the SNP, only the Lib Dems will put our community first, not the same arguments of the past
“It’s what I’ve always done as a local campaigner, and it’s what I’ll continue to do if I’m lucky enough to be your MP.”
Alex Cole-Hamilton, leader of Scottish Liberal Democrats, said: “Of all the rising stars in the Scottish Liberal Democrats, Neil Alexander is definitely one of the brightest.
“He cares so passionately about his community, and wants nothing more than to serve the people of Moray West in the UK Parliament
“He has my full support, and he has hit the ground running, picking up key local issues. I’m very proud of Neil’s candidacy and I’m very proud to help him launch his campaign, and I can’t wait to get out on the doors with him”
