BBC NEWS | Politics | Howard unveils election platform

BBC NEWS | Politics | Howard unveils election platform: "Howard unveils election platform
Michael Howard visits Bedfordshire Police on Tuesday
Mr Howard says he is tuned in to public priorities
The Conservatives would stand up for the 'forgotten majority', Michael Howard pledged as he unveiled the first part of the Tory election manifesto.

The Tory leader argued there was a mass of people whom he says feel let down by Tony Blair and who share Tory values.

In the foreword to the manifesto, he promises to focus on restoring order, trying to lower taxes and giving power back to the people.

Labour says the document offers only a return to a 'failed Tory past'.

The Liberal Democrats say the Conservatives cannot win what they predict will be a three-party contest.

'British values'

Campaigning activity is accelerating ahead of the general election, which is widely tipped for May but could be any time before June 2006.

Labour on Monday postponed a launch of election posters because of the Asian tsunami disaster.

The party will drip-feed chapters of its manifesto in coming weeks.


Tony Blair asked the forgotten majority to trust him and when they did, he let them down
Michael Howard
Conservative leader

Unveiling the first instalment in Northamptonshire, Mr Howard said a 'forgotten majority' made up the backbone of Britain.

They were people who were saving for their first home or their retirement, working hard and accepting their responsibilities.

He says in the manifesto foreword: 'They have been forgotten, neglected and taken for granted by Mr Blair.'

Disorder worries

Mr Howard argues government is too big and cannot continue 'down the path of ever rising taxes'.

He promises to ensure frontline professionals, parents and patients make the key decisions rather than Whitehall 'bureaucrats'.

And he says the Tories would get a grip on crime, immigration and disorder.

'The decline of responsibility and the proliferation of"