CPA in Labour's heartland as Alliance for Preston is formed

Following their strong showing in May in elections for Mayor and for the London Assembly, Britain’s first political party of direct Christian inspiration is putting forward its message in one of Labour's heartlands, the town of Preston. The Christian Peoples Alliance (CPA) has helped formed the Alliance for Preston, a body of grassroots groups and activists.

Spearheading the group is Peter Garrett, who has long-standing roots in the north west, as well as being grandson of Preston’s former Labour MP, Peter Mahon. As Editor of the Preston Alliance News, a local newsletter, Peter is campaigning on issues which promote the six key principles of Christian Democracy - a commitment to social justice, reconciliation, wise stewardship, respect for life, empowerment and active compassion.

Born and bred in the north west region, Peter graduated at Oxford University and is a well-known broadcaster and campaigner for human rights. Most recently he has been at the forefront of the battle against the cloning of human beings. Married with young children he recently left the Labour Party because he felt it no longer stood for the values which his grandfather represented:

"New Labour is no longer True Labour", he said. "Public relations spin doctors are no substitute for policies which care for ordinary people, properly fund health and education, stand up for the family and community and cherish human life."

Chairman of the Christian Peoples Alliance, David Campanale, said:

"Many people have grown weary of petty party politics. They have become cynical with politicians who argue interminably - usually among themselves. The Christian Peoples Alliance wants to see people back at the heart of the political equation. We're pleased to be backing Peter Garrett's group, who are determined to put Preston’s interests first."

In the London elections in May, the CPA won votes from 100,000 people across the capital, helping them to qualify for a seat to the London Assembly under the D'Hondt formula for elections using proportional representation. Last month the Electoral Reform Society recommended the government change electoral law because of the success of the CPA, who were denied the seat because of an artificial 5% threshold.