Nick Clegg elected leader

3.17.05pm GMT Tue 18th Dec 2007

Nick Clegg was today elected as the new Liberal Democrat Leader

Setting out his priorities after being elected as party leader on December 18th, Nick Clegg, said:

"I am greatly honoured to have been chosen by my fellow party members to be the new leader of the Liberal Democrats.

"Throughout the Country Liberal Democrats are already working hard to reach out to local people and listen to their concerns. In my leadership I will be taking that spirit nationwide, moving beyond party politics and making liberalism connect with the millions of people who share our values.

"Labour and the Conservatives have failed Britain's families. I will lead my party to change politics, and change Britain, for the better. Only the Liberal Democrats are committed to giving people a greater say in the decisions that affect their lives, by shifting power away from Westminster and back to local communities.

"I will fight for a fair deal for Britain's families, campaign tirelessly to cut crime, and improve our NHS so it delivers the care people need."