Lib Dem MP Steve Darling Pledges to Keep Delivering for Torbay, One Year on from Historic Election Win
Lib Dem MP Steve Darling Pledges to Keep Delivering for Torbay, One Year on from Historic Election Win
One year ago, the Liberal Democrats made history by winning 72 seats across the UK, including in Torbay.
Since then, Steve Darling has proven to be a hardworking and effective advocate for Torbay, securing major campaign victories. These include protecting Paignton Post Office, stopping the relocation of pPCI coronary services from Torbay to Exeter, and pushing the local council to provide Warm Spaces last winter.
When Torquay was awarded a share of £1.5 billion in government investment, a minister praised Steve for his "relentless lobbying."
In his role as the Liberal Democrat spokesperson for Work and Pensions, Steve has challenged unfair government proposals. His pressure helped drive U-turns on the Winter Fuel Allowance and Personal Independence Payment (PIP) cuts.
Steve’s record in Parliament stands in sharp contrast to that of his Conservative predecessor:
- He has supported 221 Early Day Motions since his election. His predecessor backed none.
- He has submitted 356 written parliamentary questions. The former MP submitted only 71 during nine years in office.
- He has mentioned "Torbay" in Parliament 74 times in the last year. That’s more than the previous MP did in six years, who mentioned the area 66 times during that time (based on Hansard search using keyword “Torbay” available at hansard.parliament.uk)
Steve Darling said:
“I was honoured and humbled when voters chose me one year ago to be their local champion.
“Since then, I have hit the ground running, working hard to be the strong voice in Parliament that our community deserves.
“From day one, I’ve focused on the issues that matter most to residents: improving local health services, tackling the cost-of-living crisis, and protecting our environment.
“Locally, I’m proud of the wins we’ve achieved, like safeguarding coronary care and keeping Paignton Post Office open. These successes show what’s possible when we put our community first.
“I am now pressing for £350 million in upgrade funding for Torbay Hospital. This investment is urgently needed, and I will keep fighting until we see real progress.
“The Liberal Democrats are committed to delivering lasting change for Torbay after years of Conservative failure and neglect.”