David Miliband writes:

It’s been an interesting few days. The debate and the hard work of Labour supporters have opened up this race in an amazingly short space of time.

But the central questions of the election remain the same – which party can secure economic recovery and build a future fair for all?

To present a credible answer to these questions, a party needs to show judgement – it needs to be able to look the public in the eye and give straight answers. And by this measure, the Tories – through their dealings with Lord Ashcroft – fall far short of what the public deserve.

I’ve now written to William Hague five times asking him two simple questions. Why he has changed his story on when he knew about Lord Ashcroft’s non-dom status? On the occasions when Lord Ashcroft has flown him, or others, around the world, has Ashcroft participated in meetings with foreign officials in countries where he has business interests?

These questions are simpe and go to the heart of William Hague’s judgement and credibility, both of which suffer the longer he continues to refuse to reply.

So let’s try something a bit different.

During this election, the public won’t stand for politicians keeping silent and hoping questions go away.

Co-sign my letter to William Hague and demand the straight answers the public deserve.

William Hague
Conservative Campaign Headquarters
30 Millbank
London
SW1P 4DP

19 April 2010

Dear William,

I wrote to on 21st March, 29th March, 6th April and 12th April asking you two simple questions. I still await a response to the following questions.

1. Why did you say in my presence on March 4th that you learnt “a few months ago” that Lord Ashcroft was not paying tax on overseas earnings because of his non domiciled tax status, when in fact you admitted on Friday night (March 19th) on Any Questions that you knew this to be the case from 2000?

2. On the occasions when Lord Ashcroft has flown you, or others, around the world has he participated in meetings with foreign officials with you in countries where he has business interests?

I have yet to receive a reply and would request that you respond as a matter of urgency. This is matter of credibility for you and trust for the general public.

Yours sincerely,

David Miliband