Conservative candidate and Oxfordshire County Councillor John Howell yesterday missed two key votes on protecting the Oxfordshire countryside.

The votes were against a new so-called ‘eco-town’ near Otmoor, which would significantly increase traffic levels in the area.

Mr Howell has come under fire in the national press for having links to property developers whilst in his election literature claiming that he will defend the Oxfordshire countryside.

Lord Rennard, Chief Executive of the Liberal Democrats said:

“Serious questions are being asked of Mr Howell.

“How can he claim to stand up for the Oxfordshire countryside when he cannot even turn up to vote on this vital issue? 

“Local people will expect better from someone who is campaigning to be their MP.”