Region’s Lib Dems hail a new leader
Dec 19 2007 by Adrian Pearson, The Journal
LIBERAL Democrats in the North-East are hoping to secure election victories following Nick Clegg’s party leadership win.
The Sheffield MP had support from some of the region’s top Lib Dems during his bid to run the party, including Newcastle Council leader John Shipley, and is now preparing for ballot box success next year.
The region’s Lib Dems are now hoping for local and General Election gains as they unite behind their third leader in as many years.
Mr Clegg was elected leader with a small majority of the votes cast.
He received 20,988 votes while rival Chris Huhne received 20,477 votes.
Newcastle city council leader John Shipley said: “I’m absolutely delighted by Nick’s win, I supported him during his campaign and while I would be happy if Chris Huhne had won, I think Nick’s win is great for the party.
“I think he will build on Vince Cable’s achievements and despite the closeness of the result, I think he can bring the party together.
“Now we have to build on his leadership and our immediate priority is to build on that unity and make real victories in the up-coming local elections.
“We think we will see a strong showing of support for the party in the Northumberland and Durham unitary elections.”
Gateshead councillor and Parliamentary spokesman for Newcastle North Ron Beadle said that although he had voted for Mr Huhne, he welcomed the chance to work with Mr Clegg when the next elections are called.
“We think we can make big gains in the unitary elections, especially in Northumberland.
“And as far as the General election is concerned, we think we can take at least one seat in Tyneside.”
Berwick MP Alan Beith also welcomed the news.
“Nick Clegg will be an outstanding leader of the Liberal Democrats who will reach out to the many people who share liberal values but who feel excluded from politics.”
MEP Fiona Hall said Mr Clegg would not overlook the region. “Nick has shown real commitment to the North-East by visiting the region many times and most recently speaking at the North-East Economic Forum in November, and he understands the key issues and challenges that face the area.”
