Nicholas Belfitt has informed the Isle of Wight Liberal Democrats that he is standing down as Prospective Parliamentary Candidate to allow for a full selection procedure before the next election.
Nicholas stood in last year’s General Election at the age of just 23, the youngest ever candidate to do so on the Isle of Wight.
In statement on stepping down Nicholas has said:
“I joined the Executive at a time when there were only two regular Officers. Together we rebuilt the Party on the Island and I am proud to be part of an active and social group.
“I have stepped down to allow for a fair and democratic selection procedure, which I fully believe will select the most suitable candidate.
“I have rebuilt the foundations of a strong and modern party, which focuses on the Island’s needs. I would like to thank my members for their courage and conviction in supporting me during last year’s election campaign, and I look forward to continue working for them as an Executive Officer on the Committee.”
Nick Stuart, Chair of the IW Liberal Democrats has had this to say:
“As former Party Chair and MP candidate he has been a stalwart of Liberalism that has such a strong history on the Isle of Wight. He will remain on the Executive as a key part of the team, in spite of his heavy workload as a new teacher, and we welcome his continued involvement and passion.”
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Nicholas’ efforts in overcoming disability were recently recognised by the High Sheriff and as the youngest Parliamentary Candidate on the Island the Party acknowledged Nicholas’ courage and conviction to stand for local and national office. He also wrote an UK Island’s policy, agreed by the National Party, that formed the basis of Conservative MP Bob Seely’s cross-party Working Committee ‘UK Island Groups’ which sees regular debates in Parliament.
