Goodbye 2019, Hello 2020

As 2019 draws to a close there is much for us in the Lib Dem to reflect on. We started the year optimistically with gains in the local and European elections. Our membership grew. Then came the General Election and despite more than 50% increase in our vote share we ended up with one less Member of Parliament. However, on reflection after the initial shock, it is not all gloom and doom.

Many CLD members have worked hard in supporting our local candidates. Our only Chinese PPC, Dr George Lee, was wholeheartedly supported by the local party in Westminster North. With our increased vote share nationally, for example, in the West Midlands, we now have 5 second placed seats compared to none in 2017.

Whether Brexit gets done or not, the problems in social care, health, education, climate change, infrastructure, security and economy remain as acute as ever. Besides holding the government to account, we must continue to push forward our Lib Dem messages of how we can practically build a better and sustainable future for all.

Certainly, there are lessons to be learnt as we go forward. Thinking ahead for the next 3 to 5 years, we in the Chinese Lib Dem should also be reviewing our role, purpose and contributions to the overall efforts of the Party. We are holding our AGM on 31st January 2020 followed by a joint Chinese New Year Dinner with the National Liberal Club.

Nomination forms for elections into the Executive Committee of Chinese Lib Dem will be sent out in early January and I hope many will consider applying, as well as participating in the AGM and the Chinese New Year Dinner. Meanwhile, on behalf of the Executive Committee, may I and my colleagues wish everyone a great Christmas and a peaceful New Year!

Dr Yeow Poon, Acting Chair, CLD