Conservative Party leader the Rt Hon David Cameron MP visited Abingdon today as the Vale of White Horse Conservatives launch their manifesto for the district elections to be held on May 3rd.On his visit to Abingdon Mr Cameron was told of Conservative plans to protect the historic town centre’s economic vitality and businesses.As part of the manifesto the Leader of the Conservative group unveiled a car parking bonanza for residents and traders.Not only would the Conservatives make the first hour free to park in all its pay and display car parks across the Vale but it would also remove its staff permit holders from the town centre’s Charter car park and relocate them to the Audlett drive, Rye farm and Cattle Market car parks. In a further step Cllr Tilley also announced that the Conservatives would fully investigate a move to pay on exit car parks to allow shoppers to spend more time in the town centres without the worry of overstaying and getting a parking ticket.Leader of the Conservative Group Cllr Melinda Tilley said, “I am delighted David has joined us today to help us reinforce our message and offer his support for our plans to bring trade back into our town centres. After walking around with David and speaking to shoppers as well as traders and members of the Chamber of Commerce we believe that these car parking measures are an essential tool in supporting Abingdon’s businesses. The increased space in the Abingdon Town centre car park coupled with the free car parking will enable people not only to come into the town but to stay for longer and enjoy all the facilities this beautiful town has to offer. This will end the Lib Dem war on the motorist in the Vale once and for all”.Leader of the Conservatives on Abingdon Town Council Cllr Mike Badcock added, “This Conservative pledge not only allows people to use the facilities of the town but it makes their time their own. If they wish to nip in they can without paying at all. The Lib Dem proposal is like a supermarket promotion - buy one get one free - the trouble is it’s like all Lib Dem proposals – past it’s sell by date!”Parliamentary Spokesman for Oxford West and Abingdon Nicola Blackwood concluded, “I am pleased David was here today to see for himself how hard the Vale of White Horse Conservatives are working to protect our historic town centres. The measures Melinda has announced today are what the towns businesses have told us is needed to ensure the vitality of the town and we are pleased to show that a Conservative controlled Vale of White Horse District Council will deliver them.