After the Liberal Democrat Conference in Liverpool Nick Clegg announced that the party is setting up a network of Liberal Democrats living and working overseas. Liberal Democrats Abroad will be based in the International Office of the Party HQ in Cowley St with Lord Paddy Ashdown as its Patron.
The chair of the Chinese Liberal Democrats, Merlene Emerson, has been shortlisted for the Liberal Democrat London wide list for the Greater London Authority in 2012. She is one of just 11 candidates that party members will be choosing between as part of our democratic process.
Following in the foot steps of Merlene Emerson who has been listed on the Visible Chinese website for over a year, Allan Siao Ming Witherick's profile was recently added. The website aims to be the "Visible Chinese ... guide to individuals at the forefront of the UK's Chinese Culture." and reflects those who have contributed to the community.
Liberal Democrat Communities Minister Andrew Stunell convened a roundtable meeting for members of the Chinese community on 1 November, providing an opportunity to explore their issues of concern. These included the tightening of the immigration regulations and its impact on the catering industry, the cost of higher education and the lack of housing support for Chinese elderly.
Prime Minister Cameron has just completed his first historic official trip to China, along with his business secretary Vince Cable, his Minister for Education Michael Gove and Minister for the Environment, Chris Huhne. We understand that an estimated £2b of deals were signed over the course of 2 days and these range from sale of Rolls Royce engines to collaboration on training of Mandarin teachers and transfer of green technology and strategies for tackling climate change.
Merlene joined Citizens UK, Spectrum Radio and other Chinese community groups in their organised protest and rally on Gerrard Street, Sunday 7 November. Right behind their stand, were the premises that only 2 weeks ago had been given planning approval by Westminster Council to become yet another gambling outlet.
