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Felicity Cunliffe-Lister - York And North Yorkshire
2024 British Local Government Election - Mayor Candidate - May, 2, 2024
Electorate of York and North Yorkshire - Liberal Democrats - United Kingdom
Who is Felicity Cunliffe-Lister?
Felicity Cunliffe-Lister is a British business owner, community activist, and Liberal Democrat politician. She gained significant recognition following her election as the councillor for the Masham and Fountains division of North Yorkshire County Council in a byelection held in February 2023.
Cunliffe-Lister's contributions extend beyond politics, encompassing substantial involvement in business, education, and local community activities in North Yorkshire.
Background and Business Endeavours:
Born into a family with a notable heritage, Felicity moved to Masham in 2000 after her family repurchased Swinton Park. Together with her husband, Mark, she transformed the castle into a hotel, which opened its doors in 2001.
The Swinton Estate has since evolved into a considerable employment hub in the region, providing jobs for 150 employees. The estate is renowned for its commitment to sustainable tourism, community engagement, and local regeneration.
Community Involvement:
Felicity's ties to the Masham community are deep-rooted. Her three children were raised in the area, and she has actively participated in various local initiatives.
Her community roles have included fundraising for Acorns, the Masham playgroup, and serving as a governor at Masham School. She is also a governor at Cundall Manor School.
Outside of her professional and political life, Felicity has a rich personal life; she enjoys sailing, walking, tennis, participates in a local choir, and performs in the Fearby panto group. Demonstrating her commitment to humanitarian causes, she is currently hosting two Ukrainian families.
Political Career:
In February 2024, Cunliffe-Lister announced her candidacy for Mayor of York and North Yorkshire as a member of the North Yorkshire Liberal Democrats. Her campaign, "Felicity for Mayor - A Yorkshire Champion," focuses on driving sustainable growth and advocating for improved deals and opportunities for the residents of York and North Yorkshire.
Her campaign is endorsed by Derek Wann on behalf of the Liberal Democrats, highlighting her vision for positive change within the region.
Professional Background:
Before her engagement in politics and her significant role in the leisure and tourism industry, Felicity was a solicitor with Garretts from March 1996 to December 1999. This legal background complements her vast experience in business, governance, and community service.
Felicity Cunliffe-Lister's career is a blend of business acumen, public service, and community engagement, making her a prominent figure in North Yorkshire's social, economic, and political landscapes.
What are Felicity Cunliffe-Lister's Political Values?
The Liberal Democrats of the United Kingdom are founded on a blend of liberal and social democratic ideologies. They primarily advocate for social liberalism, which supports wealth redistribution while maintaining a critical view of increased state power.
The party emphasizes the intrinsic link between liberty and equality, promoting investments and progressive taxation alongside championing civil liberties and advocating for a less centralized economy. This approach sets them apart from many European liberal parties, which often focus more on classical liberalism.
Political Positioning and Influence:
The Liberal Democrats position themselves across the centre to centre-left spectrum, fluctuating in emphasis over time. Historically seen as centre-left, they were perceived as more centrist during the Cameron–Clegg coalition era.
Economically, they often find themselves between the Conservative and Labour parties, generally leaning closer to Labour. Influential figures like Leonard Hobhouse and Anthony Crosland have notably shaped the party's ideology, particularly in aligning with Crosland's vision of social democracy.
Policies and Reforms:
The party is a strong proponent of constitutional reforms, advocating for a decentralized federal structure within the UK, including significant devolution of powers to Scotland, Wales, and English regions. They have consistently supported electoral reforms towards more proportional representation and maintain progressive stances on social issues like LGBT rights and drug reforms.
Their internationalist outlook is evidenced by their sustained advocacy for European integration, including support for the UK adopting the euro, while opposing a European army.
Party Dynamics and Internal Diversity:
There is a notable ideological diversity within the Liberal Democrats, with various factions advocating different shades of liberal thought. The majority faction, the Social Liberal Forum, supports extensive social liberal policies.
Other groups like the Liberal Reform and "Orange Bookers" propose more economically liberal policies. The party has also debated but not implemented policies like all-women shortlists, reflecting ongoing discussions about equality and representation methods.
Economic and Social Welfare Policies:
The Liberal Democrats have a history of supporting social welfare spending and economic policies that balance free market operations with social protection mechanisms. They have proposed various reforms over the years, including education investment, opposition to further privatization or nationalization, and tax reforms aimed at supporting lower-income groups while ensuring fiscal responsibility.
Foreign Policy and European Union Relations:
The party has taken a strong stance on several international issues, supporting interventions where internationally lawful and advocating for responsible foreign policies regarding arms and conflict. They have been a vocal proponent of the UK's involvement in the European Union, promoting policies that enhance integration while also accommodating Eurosceptic perspectives within the party at times.
