Brighton and Hove Green Party today issued a challenge to the other parties to sign up to a clean pledge.

Paul Steedman, Green Party Campaign director, said "I would like to challenge the other parties in Brighton Pavilion to agree to a Clean Campaign Pledge ahead of the general election.

"Public regard for politicians has never been lower, and it is crucial that we help regain the public's trust in politics."

Candidates taking the pledge will commit to refrain from personal attacks, not to mislead the public about who is likely to win and to make only honest and reasonable promises.

Paul continued "Voters are tired of negative campaigning, of insults and innuendo.

"Greens in the city will continue to campaign on the issues that matter to local people including the economy, health, education and climate change not on hypocritical and petty point scoring which seems to have begun.

"We very much hope the other candidates will sign up in the next week to the pledge below."

Caroline Lucas, Green general election candidate for Brighton Pavilion constituency, said, "The Green Party has a long tradition of playing fair in its election campaigning.

"It would show proper respect for the people of Brighton for all parties to agree to campaign on the issues people want to hear about.

"If elected, I will serve the people of Brighton as an honest and independent voice, who will represent and fight for the issues that local residents care about.

"This is reflected in my campaign, which is signed up to the Clean Campaign Pledge, and I urge other candidates to sign the pledge as well."

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The Clean Campaign Pledge:

We, the undersigned, pledge:

• To fight a clean, positive and honest campaign around the issues that
  concern local voters.
• To tell the truth about what we stand for and have achieved, and about
  what others stand for and have achieved.
• To refrain from personal attacks.
• To make only honest and reasonable promises.
• To be honest about public spending.
• To publish online details of all donations of more than £1,000, in
  line with Electoral Commission rules.

For more information please contact Brighton and Hove Green Party office on 01273 766 670.