Nick Clegg praised the work of Lib Dem grandee Vince Cable and his commitment to promoting mental health issues on the Richmond campaign trail yesterday.
The deputy prime minister joined Dr Cable at Richmond Adult Community College (RACC) to celebrate the coalition government’s record on adult learning and mental health.
The pair toured the new theatre and art studios and chatted to students about the difference the college makes to their lives.
Here’s what @nick_clegg and I did at our visit to @RACC_College this afternoon. pic.twitter.com/IYt7PXtA4A
— Vince Cable (@vincecable) April 21, 2015
Mr Clegg said: “As you know Vince has a long-standing personal commitment to adults with mental health problems and it’s great that they have access to wonderful educational facilities like this.
“There is an enormous emotional, mental and therapeutic effect that learning in an environment like this and that’s a huge tribute to Vince personally.
“He has brought this long-standing commitment to mental health in his own community by way of government announcing £50million additional investment and a long-standing interest in transforming under-resourced mental health services on his own doorstep in south west London.”
Many thanks to @RACC_College for such a warm welcome for @LibDems visit today with @nick_clegg and @robinmeltzer pic.twitter.com/3Kq5cJA4wm — Vince Cable (@vincecable) April 21, 2015
Dr Cable explained that his party demonstrated an ability to deliver in this area with limited resources.
He said: “It’s a good illustration of what the Liberal Democrats can do in government particularly at a time when money is very scarce – my department has protected the budget over the last five years.”
This afternoon was full of selfies and art as @nick_clegg joined @vincecable & @robinmeltzer in Twickenham #GE2015 pic.twitter.com/93g6sCF1gc
— Liberal Democrats (@LibDems) April 21, 2015
During the visit Mr Clegg paid tribute to his cabinet colleague.
He said: “Vince is such an authoritative national figure but also an incredibly hard-working MP.
“Vince offers national experience represents party that wants to keep country strong and stable.
“Hopefully people who are not lifelong Lib Dems will see this and not want to see the country dance to the tune of Nigel Farage and the right wing swivel-eyed brigade.”
RACC principal Gabrielle Flint said she was delighted to welcome them into the college and showcase their new facilities.
She said: “It’s great to get some recognition for the work we are doing.
“It helps people to develop their skills and to lead positive lifestyles which helps reduce the pressure on the NHS.”
