Dunfermline - It's Going To Be Close

SNP Leader Alex Salmond MP and local candidate Douglas Chapman today hosted the party's final press conference before the polls opened in the Parliamentary by-election in Dunfermline and West Fife at an event in Dunfermline today.

With less than 24 hours to go before polling stations open, the SNP is predicting a close contest with Labour when the votes are counted tomorrow.

Speaking at the event, Mr Salmond said:

"It's clear from all the available evidence that there will be a huge swing to the SNP at the polls here tomorrow.

"Our campaign has been well organised and well focused, and Douglas Chapman is a tremendous candidate, who will do a top class job of representing the people of this area as their Member of Parliament.

"The last election in Fife was the by-election in Burntisland in September which saw a huge 13.2 percent swing to the SNP from Labour. Only a small improvement in this result will result in one of the most significant results in Scottish political history.

"Only Douglas Chapman can beat Labour and ensure real change for people here."

Mr Chapman said:

"The mood amongst local people is clear ­ we want change in our communities.

"People here want to put some pride back into their town, which has been let down badly under Labour leadership for decades.

"Local people want top class local hospital services, and so I'm proud to have the public support of David Wishart, the Independent Hospital Candidate in 2003. If those who supported his cause in that election vote for me tomorrow we will win here.

"People in Fife are also still concerned about the Labour and LibDem proposal to increase the Forth Road Bridge Tolls, and have not been fooled by Labour's attempts to pull the wool over their eyes. In addition, local people know the increase in Council Tax which will be officially announced tomorrow will punish those on low and fixed incomes hardest, and they resent paying more under Labour and the Liberals while their education serices face yet more cuts.

"Labour have had their chance to make a positive difference to the area, and they have failed to deliver. Only by voting for the SNP tomorrow can local people make a difference and change the area for the better. Tomorrow is their chance to put a bit of pride back into our community."

Dunfermline SNP