Pledge Signed to Keep Out Racism In City Elections

The Liberal Democrats as well as other political leaders in Leicester have signed an election compact, a pledge to keep racism out of their election campaigns.

The pledge was drawn up by the Leicester and Leicestershire Multi-Cultural Advisory Group.

Cllr Roger Blackmore, Lib Dem City Council leader and leader of the Liberal Democrat group, told local press, "The compact is an important way of improving the basic standards in political life, It reminds us all that respect for people is far more important than political bickering."

Candidates who sign are required to represent all constituents, regardless of race, sex, colour, religion and to promote good race relations. They must also reject all forms of racial violence, harassment and discrimination, and not publish any leaflets or posters likely to cause racial hostility. When door knocking, they must ensure that no words are used which may stir up racial or religious hatred.

All Liberal Democrat candidates will sign the pledge.