Latest defection 'not high profile', Tories claim
Monday, 6 August 2007 12:00 AM
Labour has claimed another scalp from the Tories with the defection of a Welsh Conservative activist.
However, the Tories have downplayed the defection of David Anstee, saying he had only a minimal role in the Welsh Conservative party.
Labour welcomed 26-year-old Mr Anstee, claiming he was a rising star in the Welsh Conservative party.
The school teacher stood as a Conservative councillor in Rhondda, making him the first Tory candidate for 20 years.
Labour has claimed he helped draft the party's manifesto for the assembly election in May. The the claim was swiftly rejected by the Tories.
A spokeswoman said: "David Anstee was in no way involved in putting together the 2007 election manifesto.
"Whilst his leaving is to be regretted he had no high profile role in the party whatsoever."
The Conservatives are demanding an apology from Labour AM Leighton Andrews and are threatening to refer the matter to the commissioner for standards.
A spokeswoman for the Welsh Conservatives confirmed Mr Anstree took place in a policy forum.
These are similar to mini-conferences and are open to all party members, she explained.
The spokeswoman continued: "The fact that David Anstee claims to have attended one does in no way, shape or form substantiate Labour's claim that he played a role in writing the Party's 2007 election manifesto."
Appearing alongside Mr Andrews, Mr Anstee blamed David Cameron's leadership for his decision.
He said the Conservative party had "shown itself to be incapable of change" and retreated to the right whenever it face a serious political test.
Mr Anstee said: "In contrast, I have been really impressed by Gordon Brown's leadership. His strength and vision for Britain has been inspiring.
"We need a serious leader for serious times, to meet the challenges of security, global warming and housing."
Gordon Brown welcomed Mr Anstee's switch as proof he is building a coalition with moderate Conservatives.
"I welcome him to the party and look forward to hearing of his positive contribution in the future," the prime minister said.
Mr Anstee follows MP Quentin Davies, who defected to Labour on the eve of Mr Brown's premiership.
At the time, Labour MPs claimed further high-profile Tories would be crossing the Commons but so far none have been persuaded.
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