LDEG welcomes the new Lib Dem leader

8.58.42am GMT Sat 22nd Dec 2007

LDEG is proud to have a new leader with such a strong European pedigree. LDEG has moved forwards in recent years and is now closely linked to the Liberal Democrat MEP group, playing a full role in European consultations and the Policy Working Group on Europe so Phil Bennion, LDEG chair, hopes to work closely with Nick Clegg on European issues.

Phil wrote to Nick saying, "Personally, I am delighted that you have set out your stall to reach beyond the party's core vote. I believe that your ideologically liberal approach gives you every chance of enthusing those of a liberal disposition who have not generally voted for us in the past."

Andrew Duff MEP, Leader of the Liberal Democrat European Parliamentary Party and LDEG president said: "Nick Clegg promises to be a brilliant leader of the party."

Graham Watson MEP, Leader of the Alliance of Liberals and Democrats for Europe (ALDE), said that, with his European experience, "Nick knows better than any other UK party leader how to harness the benefits of EU membership for the good of Britain."