One member's reflection on the recent Emergency Conference of the Liberal Democrats

Last weekend saw an Emergency Conference of Liberal Democrats held in Birmingham. Delegates had the opportunity to discuss and debate the coalition agreement, and were asked to approve a motion which backs the new Government, which they did with "overwhelming support". A number of local members attended this unique occasion and Lee Dargue from Telford has provided us with his personal account:

'This was my first experience of attending a conference, and it would be an experience that had a big impact on me.

As soon as I heard that a conference was going to be held, my first reaction was "Amazing!!" as I truly believe no other party would risk (as it was a risk as there was a chance of a 'No' vote) this kind of truly democratic principle - that a party's members should have a say in the big decisions. The second emotion I had was excitement, as I found out it would be in Birmingham, which is about 40 minutes from where I live, so I knew I was going to be attending; the speed in which the conference was able to be organized was incredible, and a credit to those responsible.

The day really did feel democratic and open. There was a sense of tense expectation at the start, as none of us really knew whether there would be more supporters of the coalition, more against, of if it would be a 50/50 outcome. As the day went on, it seemed clear that there were more in favour, however I did really enjoy listening to all points of view, and I think it important to note that there was equal attention and focus given to those who opposed, as to those who agreed. No heckling or shouting down - if only politics in the commons were this civilized and grown-up!

Several speakers had standing ovations, Nick Clegg obviously, although if I am to be hyper-critical, he didn't really say anything new, and I don't think he seemed as enthusiastic as some others, however I guess you could argue he had a slightly exhausting week, I mean…he IS the deputy PM now!!

Chris Huhne was not overly-excited, however, I feel that his speech was solid, and based in logic and maturity, which is what I based my feelings of the coalition on once the raw emotion of "Anyone but the Tories!" subsided and gave way to proper consideration. Indeed, when I spoke to Chris Huhne afterwards, he looked shattered, as if he would be happy to drop right there and catch some sleep. (He was the only high-profile member I saw who caught the train, and considering his new cabinet post, I thought this a very good example to set!). His statement that "our hearts beat on the left" was a good message for those fearing we'd be 'swallowed up by the Tories'.

Lorely Birt gave a good speech, as she was clearly very happy with the result for Solihull (having won by just 175 votes!) and full of passion. Special note here to my 2 travelling partners for this conference - Jacki and Jodie. Like so many others Jacki has done a lot of good, hard work during the election campaign, including helping Lorely get in. Jodie was with us too and she seems passionate too about the future, and perhaps standing for election! Jacki and Jodie also came up with phrase of the day, as Jodie was swooning whilst standing next to Vince Cable in the coffee line, and Jodie and Jacki wanted a t-shirt to say "I agree with Nick" across the chest and with the back saying "BUT I'M IN LOVE WITH VINCE!"

Vince Cable twice referred to the financial future in the short-term as going to be "bloody awful", but he still carried pragmatism and passion for the future in his speech, and again, having the guts to be honest and open about what is to come. I must say, the thing about him that stood out most was that he was certainly taller than I expected!

Without question, Simon Hughes gave the speech of his life. Always good at conferences, but considering the backdrop of the reason for this, he spoke passionately and convincingly about the way LibDems can remain LibDems, and how we will use this opportunity of government not for ourselves, but for the all of the people of Britain. A rousing standing ovation marked the end of it, more so than some gigs I've been too!

Even those who were seemingly nervous, or at least new to speaking in front of people, gave good speeches in content, referencing amendments they wanted to see voted in - which all amendments were.

In the end, the votes were easily a landslide for accepting and supporting the motion. For those of you worried about your allegiance to the LibDems with regards to the coalition, if the 2000+ attendees to this conference are a representative cross-section of the membership across the country, you have nothing to worry about.

I mentioned that it had a big impact. Following my sense of excitement for the future after Nick's 3 great TV debates, the improvements we had at the elections for my area, and a good feeling when I attended the count, this conference has taken me from a position of "I'd like to stand" to "I have to stand". I truly believe in our party, and hope you continue to do so too.

Let's strive forward with our continued real passion for fairness in the country. Finally, remember that we still are, and will continue to be, Liberal Democrats.'

This is a personal account from Lee (lee@dargue.co.uk). If you attended and/or wish to make other comment, please let us know via info@wrekinlibdems.org.uk.