Human Rights Act on the line in this election - we'll fight Tory weakening say Liberal Democrats candidates in Newcastle

Liberal Democrats candidates in the three Newcastle constituencies at the General Election have vowed to defend the Human Rights Act, after the Conservative manifesto pledged to "update" the legislation.

On behalf of himself and colleagues Wendy Taylor and Nick Cott, Ali Avaei (Newcastle Central) said :

"We've known for years that the Conservatives want to undermine the Human Rights Act that safeguards our individual freedoms, and their manifesto confirms it.

"When the Tories say they will 'update' the Act, there's no doubt that they mean weaken it.

"They tried during the coalition, but the Liberal Democrats stopped them. We will stop them again if they try now.

"Liberal Democrats will build a brighter future where everyone's rights and liberties are protected."