Tory MP hopeful speaks out on all woman shortlist

Apr 1 2009 Huddersfield Daily Examiner

A TORY parliamentary candidate said she’s glad she was picked for her skills and not just because she’s a woman.

Karen Tweed was chosen by the Conservative Party last week to run for Huddersfield’s Member of Parliament.

She made the comment after the news last week that Labour Party activists chose an all-woman shortlist for the Colne Valley.

The decision was made in order to increase the number of female MPs in the Labour party.

Mrs Tweed said: “We had a mixed selection and I’m very pleased about it because I like to achieve things on my merits and not just on my sex.

“I think the main thing is that I’ve lived here for such a long time and I wouldn’t dream of moving.

“I shop here and use the public transport and facilities. I feel quite honoured that I can now represent the town.

“I think I’m a very genuine, honest person that is down to earth and doesn’t have a lot of airs and graces – people will notice that when they meet me.”

Karen has lived in Huddersfield for 23 years and now lives in Golcar with husband Mark.

She worked for Huddersfield NHS Trust for 20 years before transferring to Leeds NHS Trust.

Karen sees unemployment in Huddersfield as one of the major problems to be tackled.