An anniversary and a new municipal year – opportunities for reflection

Last week marked the tenth anniversary of the death of Charles Kennedy, Lib Dem leader from 1999 to 2005. It reminded me that I have been a member of the party for 10 years as I joined at that time, having been inspired by Kennedy. It was shortly after the heavy defeat in the 2015 general election, and I also wanted to help the party rebuild. With Ukip on the rise and our EU membership under threat I also wanted to stand up for Liberal Democratic values.

Ten years on Reform has taken on the mantle of Ukip – and people are worried about this on the doorstep. Our EU membership has been lost and the Hard Right is on the march in many countries. One gets involved in politics to make a difference, and of course one often thinks has anything really changed and have I made a difference?

As we started the new municipal year in Southampton I have also reflected on this over the past month. It was also a chance to look back and ahead. Southampton Lib Dems came to mayor-making this year as a group of five. Last year we were four, the year before three, and the year before that just one. Having accompanied the growth of our group, I’m proud of the impact that our councillors are having in their roles. Our presence is providing a constructive opposition to the Labour administration, pushing for progress, listening to our constituents, developing policy and contributing strongly to working groups and committees on the Council. Our Budget proposals and our support for making Housing a real priority for the city are particular highlights for me. I was also pleased to look back on a busy and productive year on Scrutiny.

So, yes, locally we are making a difference and I’m sure that we will continue to do so as our group grows in stature and in number. This is cause for optimism even if events in the wider world continue to generate real worry.

In our group room we have portraits of two of our Liberal heroes, Shirley Williams and Paddy Ashdown. I like to think that they’re looking down at us approvingly as we look to them for inspiration. It’s time now to get a picture of Charles Kennedy to add to our portraits. He continues to inspire.