Robert Adamson 1

Robert lives in Yorkshire with his wife, Eileen. He has 2 adult daughters from his first marriage. He trained civil servants and emergency service personnel, has produced award-winning videos, is the author of many training books, and helped in the development of an internationally acclaimed model for inter-personal skills training. Politically he has been a candidate for Europe

He campaigns on environmental issues and disability matters (he has Multiple Sclerosis). Robert is experienced as a public speaker, in using inter-personal skills and in team-building. Robert has worked on the Federal Conference Committee for seven years and is Chair of the Conference Access Group. Re-Elect (Kas) Qassim AFZAL ONE

FCC, 2015 The members party, debating real policy for real change… Ÿ Elected: in N/Manchester in 1998 1st LD Cllr Ÿ 32 % Swing (the biggest in the UK) Ÿ Fought 10 council elections Politician Ÿ Fought 3 Euro elections Businessman Ÿ Fought 3 Parliamentary elections Consultant Ÿ Highest vote against Gerald Kaufman MP TV presenter Chief executive of a abi media marketing consultancy Lecturer delivering, startups, economic development, FDI, and Mentor media training in the UK and internationally Well-connected: inside and outside the party and has a well-earned reputation for his committed activism for thirty years, he has combined his business career with a wide range of voluntary work & politics. Yusuf & dog, trying to making conference a real family event… though baby siting is tough work… respect to mums... Party: Qassim currently serves on the FE, FCC and the International Relations Committee. He is also a member of the DCMS & IAT (foreign affairs) committee, elected to the Interim Peers panel, acted as chair of Manchester City LibDems, the LGA Equalities Executive and a Board member & Chair NW Development Agency Business Forum, (EMBF) Nominators:

Rt Hon Dr Vince Cable MP Rt Hon Norman Lamb MP Contact me: [email protected], mobile: 07956 87 30 46 @QassimAfzal Cllr. Jon Ball Greater transparency Unfaltering democracy 12 years FCC experience Standing for Federal Conference Committee

Conference should be published to Transparency... members. That’s why I would fight to change the I am committed to changing the rules that rules that prevent transparency, and keep FCC decisions secret from members. seek to make FCC decisions more We must be an open, transparent party. The open. This would also make FCC key decisions about what we discuss at more accountable.

Conference is crucial for the Party to retain its liberal identity in coalition. It Democracy... must discuss controversial issues and address members’ fears and anxieties. This means accepting controversial topics for debate and ensuring members I will fight to retain Conference’s central at conference can vote on all the key role in the Party’s policy-making process. issues of the day.

I am the Parliamentary Candidate for Ealing Central and Acton. I have attended About Jon... conference since 1985, and am an experienced conference chair. This year, I chaired the football motion. I am a member of ALDC, Lib Dem Humanists & Secularists, the ERS and the Social Liberal Forum.

I was on the FCC for 12 years until 2012. Now I want to return to the Committee, refreshed! Please give me you first preference, to make sure I return to FCC this time. [email protected] @JonBall

EPPS Contact me: [email protected] or Facebook Keeping Conference Liberal! I will do what . I’ve always I have pushed to get more done to help those on low incomes to attend, including on done on FCC, Facebook. A new accommodation scheme is such as: up and running; but proposals to pilot online Work to ensure as participation in consultative sessions and Q&As many members as were rejected. I will keep trying to progress this. possible can attend; My experience helps me to spot and help Help anyone wanting stop any blatant attempts to manipulate the assistance drafting Conference agenda or to keep anything that motions and/or should be debated, from being debated. amendments; Pressure on Party Keeping open- NO accreditation; finances should not minded and pressing YES to open and result in volunteer-run unpopular causes - democratic debate! Party bodies being as I did with more made to suffer. use of Saturdays; We should ensure the interests of Party Work to maximise members and groups are set fairly alongside debating time, with the necessary goal of maximising income. fewer presentations; Keep an ear open for the voice of the Party’s campaigners. 13 years’ hard work on FCC with a very high attendance record. A radical, experienced voice for FCC FCC needs to change - and quickly!

Elect RICHARD FAGENCE to FCC

Why me? And why now?

. It is clear to me that all is not well in the way FCC conducts its business on our behalf.

. Greater transparency in the way it makes its decisions is urgently needed.

. The method of selection of motions for debate needs to be more open. Reasons for rejection are seldom given.

. All members - whether attending Conference or not - are entitled to know how agendas are selected.

. I believe I have the ability - and the desire - to change FCC for the better.

Our conferences lie at the very heart of what Liberal Democracy means to me - and to you. As the only party that lets its members determine policy, we need to ensure that this remains a cornerstone of our belief. In recent years it has become clear that there is a gulf between what members want to see debated and the agenda that shapes Conference. In my view this has to change and it has to change quickly. Elect me to FCC and I promise to do my best to make that change happen.

Contact me on 07778 806050 or [email protected]

Please give me your FIRST PREFERENCE vote -

FAGENCE 1 Sandra Gidley

For Federal Policy Committee

11 years as a Lib Dem councillor 10 years as a Member of Parliament Chaired Gender Balance Task Force for 4 years Experience of FE and FPC President of South Central Lib Dems Wants to see policy that you can sell on the doorstep Any questions? E-mail me on [email protected]

Dear Conference Rep

I have always been proud to belong to a party in which the members play a real part in developing policy. I want to keep it that way.

However, we have seen far too many compromises over the last few years. Whilst some of this has been a necessary requirement of being in Coalition it is vital that, as we approach the next General Election, we need policy that is as Liberal as possible and is not associated with the Conservatives.

After the election it is vital that we, as a party, re-establish our Liberal credentials so that the electorate really know what we stand for.

People know that I am an independent thinker and not afraid of asking the difficult questions if I think that will benefit the party that I love.

So please vote for me to ginger up the FPC!

Sandra

Sandra Gidley – keeping policy Liberal 1 Cara Jenkinson for Federal Conference Committee Dear voting rep, My priorities The role of Conference has never been greater - for change... from formulating distinctive Liberal Democrat policies to training our campaigners to win in these challenging times. And we can make it 1. To increase even better. That’s why I’m standing for FCC. transparency

I grew up in Haringey, a diverse community in 2. To use North London. I have a Greek Cypriot mother and Northern Irish father. I believe that the FCC modern must address the needs of everyone, from technology to choosing the best motions for debate, to making widen Conference more accessible. participation

I am part of the innovative campaign team in Haringey, Chair of the local party and a member 3. To make of the Social Liberal Forum. I bring practical conference fit experience of event and budget management. I for Coalition also bring life experience as a magistrate, school governor and mother.

As politics evolves and technology advances, Conference needs to move forward. So please vote for a fresh voice on the FCC!

“Cara is an invaluable member of the Haringey team, and will be an excellent addition to the Federal Conference Committee” - Lynne Featherstone MP [email protected] @CaraJenkinson

Former MEP and MP Liz Lynne has been a hardworking member of FCC, speaking up for inclusivity in a professionally managed event. Since standing down from Brussels in 2012, Liz has the time and energy to play a key role in sharpening our democracy. Conference must be as democratic as possible. Liz supports wider participation in shaping policy and making conference more accessible. Rooted in the party, Liz has been a grass roots activist and council candidate in London, a PPC in Eastern region, an MP in the North West and a Midlands MEP. MP 1992 - 1997, MEP 1999 - 2012. "While conference has become more Liz has spent decades fighting to end discrimination and expand participation professional in recent years, we need it to in society. She believes no democracy be more inclusive if we are to re-connect can function without being open to all. Liberal Democrats - opening up new On FCC Liz fights to ensure conference ways to debate and shape policy. does not simply become a ‘shop window’. Conference is more than a shop window, As MP and MEP for nearly 18 years, but we need to innovate in finding ways Liz’s determined negotiation won many to expand participation. We must not victories for Liberalism in committee, price out ordinary members either.” shaping legislation. She knows how democracy and effective campaigning can go hand in hand. Liz needs your FIRST PREFERENCE vote to win! For effective member democracy WE NEED LIZ ELECTED Liz LYNNE 1 Chris Maines - experience and fresh ideas

Dear fellow Lib Dem,

Our conference has seen dramatic changes since I was first elected to FCC - and I have worked hard to protect the features that makes a Lib Dem conference unique.

After the next election, if we are not in Government, conference will change again. My priority will be to ensure Chris comes to conference to registration fees are not put up work - first as a steward, then chief steward, now an FCC to make up for the loss of other member helping to facilitate incomes. We must strive to debates. make conference affordable, He was a councillor for 28 accessible and open to all party years, has been a target seat PPC and is a frequent by members who want to attend. election helper. It ‘s important FCC membership Chris lives in Lewisham and can be contacted on has experience and fresh ideas. [email protected] Please give me a high preference - Chris Maines 1 CSM/FCC/2014

Zoë O’CONNELL [email protected] Twitter: @zoeimogen

✔ Equalities policy working group member ✔ Experienced council candidate, returning largest swing to LibDems in 2014 in Cambridge (+14.2%, vs previous 2012 city election) ✔ East of England regional exec, 2011 ✔ LGBT+ LibDems Executive since 2011, Humanist and Secularist Liberal Democrats Executive ! I am a Liberal Democrat 2013/4 because I believe passionately in ✔ “Keep Conference Liberal” civil liberties, as evidenced by my campaigner, opposed to work championing LGBT issues accreditation including equal marriage and ✔ Social Liberal Forum opposing the Snoopers’ Charter.! Member ! That passion extends to conference, where I believe it is vital that members retain a strong voice in deciding policy, either in coalition or outside of it. One Member, One Vote simply isn’t enough: Democracy requires that those voting are informed, and if elected I promise to push for a more transparent FCC, working for you, the members.

Zoë O’CONNELL 1 Joe Otten #1 FOR FEDERAL CONFERENCE A more open, democratic conference

FCC puts a lot of hard work into making conference “a success - we believe there could be some improvements. Joe Otten is passionate about making conference more open and democratic We want conference to be more open to participation, more transparent in its procedures & to be an exemplar of democratic decision-making, showcasing our values and candidates. ” About Joe JOE’S CONFERENCE REFORMS Ÿ Member of the Liberal Democrat Voice editorial team 1. Extending drafting advice Ÿ Sheffield City Councillor Ÿ PPC for Sheffield Central to enable better collaboration among proposers Ÿ Euro candidate for Yorkshire this year 2. Advance notice of proposers Ÿ Interests include economic policy, of amendments & separate votes on acceptance environment, political reform, or rejection transport, public services 3. Motion & amendment Staying in touch transparency [email protected] Topics & proposers of motions & amendments submitted & reasons for acceptance or rejection to @ExtraBold be available to interested members /joe.otten.fcc 4. Making FCC more accountable http://joe.otten.uk Reform of the confidentiality rules so that FCC members can be accountable for at least some of ( 07958 531428 their decisions Retain for reference for if I am elected & you have casework for me

I edit & contribute to Lib Dem Voice because I enjoy & believe in facilitating a constructive “debate on policies & values between members & with the wider public. I hope to apply the same energy to improving our party conference. ” Vote Joe OTTEN #1 for FCC PAULINE PEARCE for Federal Conference Committee As a relatively new party member, my first experiences of conference have been exciting and fulfilling. I have been so warmly welcomed.

But bringing a fresh pair of eyes and ears, there are things I think we can do better and I want to help change. DIVERSITY Often, at fringes and meetings, I found myself the only non-white face in a room. This is not just off-putting but means the party loses out on input from people with different experiences.

I want us to work harder to encourage INCLUSION BME communities to join, get active and For a first-time attendee, or just someone attend conference. who doesn't spend much time in council chambers or committees, Conference can ACCESSIBILITY seem strange and disorienting. As someone with a disability, I think I want to provide more support for newer there is more we can do to make members to help explain the processes, conference easier for disabled bust some of the jargon and help them get members to access. what they want out of their time.

Easier access to mobility assistance and Please support me by giving me your help dealing with security queues would be my priorities. #1 VOTE FOR FCC My vision for FCC Increase participation:  Work with EMLD, LGBT+ , LDDA and LDW to raise attendance and increase participation in all aspects of the conference by a more diverse range of members 40 years of service to the party  Explore potential for satellite venues, re- On Kingston Council: mote contributions to debates (by phone or  Councillor for Chessington North & Hook video links), and online voting on motions  Lead member for Children and Young Peo- Greater transparency: ple’s Services (schools + social services)  Minutes of meetings to be published online  Lead member for Communication and Par-  Justifications provided for the selection or ticipation rejection of motions and amendments  Chair of Neighbourhood (area) committee  Mayor What I would bring to FCC In the local party: Proven skills and experience:  Chair of local party —second largest in UK,  Organised three successful conferences for membership increased by over 100 the Social Liberal Forum (SLF), construct-  Chair of approvals and selection panel ing a balanced agenda with wide appeal  Chair of Campaign Team  Introduced community-led policy develop-  Ward organiser ment for Kingston Council  Awarded OBE this year ‘for political ser-  Management skills in a large FE college vice, particularly in Kingston upon Thames’  Author of 20 books on IT and Computing  Governor in four schools over a period of In the wider party: 30 years; chair of two of them.  Day editor on Liberal Democrat Voice  Appointed by last government as Chair of  Member of three policy working groups on the National Project for Local e-Democracy Localism, on Information technology and  Vice Chair of the International Centre of intellectual property, and on Inequalities. Excellence for Local e-Democracy  Accredited party trainer, providing training  Chair of e-Democracy.org, an international on blogging and social media leader in online community engagement  Developed many websites for parliamentari- ans (including Edward Davey) and for Lib Nominated by Kingston Dem campaigns and organisations. Lib Dems and 16  Active member of the Social Liberal Forum, conference because equality and social justice matter as reps much as liberty  Member of Lib Dem Christian Forum

Shas Sheehan Dear friend,

I am asking you to re-elect me onto Federal Conference Committee.

I'm proud of my strong track record of action and results both as the parliamentary candidate for Wimbledon (2010 and 2015), and as a respected former councillor for London Borough of Values and Richmond. I understand how important principles in action it is to have policies that work on the doorstep. ● A strong supporter of one member, one vote My diverse background, including as a recipient of free school meals, full ● Supports those calling university grant and as an auxiliary nurse, will bring experiences to the for greater transparency table which will, I hope, broaden in federal committees discussions. ● Will not fear Party conferences are an opportunity to controversy when showcase our internal democratic processes, as well as our policies, casting her vote to principles and candidates. This is the choose motions and agenda that I wish to help shape over amendments for the the challenges of the coming two years. conference agenda But I need your help. ● A tireless worker for the All best wishes, party - always upholding our values and principles Please give Shas your 1st preference Please vote for JANE SMITHARD for FCC

“We must campaign strongly on our record in this Government .....and on what more we can achieve in the next one.”

Please support me for the Federal Conference Committee because:

I strongly believe in the primacy of Conference as a policy making body – it is a unique strength that no other parties have. he Committee needs members to promote our record in Government and represent candidates and campaigners at our most prominent showcase event. The Committee also needs members who are willing to spend time reviewing motions so that they make sense and are relevant. And there should be at least an equal balance of good, competent women and men on the Committee to properly represent the Party.

If you agree, please support me with your First preference (or other) vote. Thank you.

Why vote for Jane?

1. Qualified as a Barrister and Arbitrator, I work in the IT sector as Group Company Secretary, General Counsel and (the first woman) Executive Board Member of a leading UK software plc. I previously ran my own Legal Consultancy business for 20 years. 2. I am Vice President of the Parliamentary Candidates’ Association and former Chair. My focus is on providing the right tools for our candidates to fight their campaigns. 3. I started the PCA’s Parliamentary Campaigner, the campaign briefing for candidates on key issues and clear messaging aligned with the Party. I chair its Editorial Board. 4. A founder member of the Party I have stood as a Parliamentary Candidate in 3 General Elections. 6. I am a previous member of both the FE and FCC, chairing numerous debates at Conference. 7. I provided political and legal advice to Helena Morrissey for the Morrissey Inquiry into Ethical Standards within the Party. 8. I am a strong proponent of equal opportunity in politics and business and have experienced first- hand the difficulties of juggling career and parenthood. My son is now studying in Berlin giving me more time again to devote to the Party. Jane SMITHARD : 1 A voice from the Region

Dear Conference Rep, I have served on FCC for the last two years. During this time I have tried to make sure that there is as much time for debates so that you have time to speak and ensure that issues chosen reflect the election cycle, counties, districts and urban/cities, so that candidates have the tools to campaign with. I have found that not only am I the most northerly English rep but also the voice of local government on FCC. I have the campaigning experience, having been one of the youngest councillors elected in 1968 and still going strong and fighting for Liberal ideals. I have had practical experience as Deputy Leader of Birmingham City from 2005/12, making a difference to people's lives in a real way. Please give me your 1st preference vote. Questions, email me at [email protected] Many thanks.

PAUL TILSLEY 1 Vote Dr Rebecca Trimnell for Federal Conference Committee

ü I am a lifelong liberal who cares passionately for our party and will provide a fresh yet experienced voice on the FCC ü Every conference must have a strong liberal agenda, which clearly differentiates us from the Conservatives and Labour. ü We owe it to all our members who attend federal conference that they come away impassioned and enthusiastic about the party to which they belong. ü We also want observers and other non- members to feel at home and inspired by Contact Rebecca their conference experience. [email protected] ü We must in all that we do reduce inequality, protect the environment and fight to save our 07749 020 520 civil liberties.

● I live in Gloucester and I am the political advisor for fourteen county councillors in the county of Gloucestershire. ● I was previously Chair of the Plymouth Local Party and served on the Devon & Cornwall regional executive. ● I have been an active Lib-Dem campaigner and activist on a range of issues, both locally, nationally and internationally. ● I have a doctorate in politics, which has given me a good understanding of the importance of communication not just with the electorate, but also with party members. ANDREW WISEMAN

Andrew is an active campaigner in local, regional and national politics: Currently Chair of Conference Committee Former Chair of ALDC Experienced chair and aide including the Q&A session PROMOTING DEBATE with Nick Clegg and pre- Andrew is keen to ensure that conference manifesto debate finds the correct balance between being Former Chair, Green Liberal accessible to as many members as Democrats possible, whilst providing a platform for Councillor for 11 years, debate, questioning ministers, raising money for campaigning and providing a leading our Group in platform to boost our external image. minority control He wants to continue to look at ways of Solicitor specialising in using the internet to involve party members environmental law unable to attend conference.

ANDREW SAYS: We need to continue to ensure that our conference remains a democratic policy making forum. We should be proud of what our conference stands for. “ Please give me your first preference for Conference Committee.

Contact Andrew on 07976 258664 or [email protected]. You can follow Andrew on Twitter: @andrewdwiseman ” Andrew was nominated by Duncan Brack. Andrew WISEMAN 1