Hampshire Lib Dem councillor defects to Conservatives

Cllr Adam Carew, of Hampshire County Council and East Hampshire District Council, has defected from the Lib Dems to the Conservatives. Cllr Carew remains a liberal with a small l. He says the Lib Dems are "shambolic" and "extremely unpleasant."

Conservative Party chairman Grant Shapps said:

"I'm delighted to welcome Adam to the Conservative Party - the true home of progressive Liberals.

"He brings a wealth of experience - especially on campaigning to protect Britain's environment and on green issues.

"It's fantastic to have him on board."

Cllr Carew was also a Lib Dem parliamentary candidate. He stood against James Arbuthnot in Hampshire North East in 2005, coming second.