Nick Clegg leadership victory - Michael German comment

12.00.00am GMT Tue 18th Dec 2007

Following the victory for Nick Clegg in the Liberal Democrat leadership contest, Welsh Liberal Democrat Leader Michael German AM said: "I have offered Nick my warmest congratulations. He is hardworking, charismatic and will bring a wealth of experience to the role.

"His strong background as Home Affairs spokesperson bodes well for the future of the party. He has led the way in opposing ID cards and speaking up for progressive policies on immigration.

"I supported him because I believe he will be the leader to attract new members and more voters to a liberal way of thinking. Nick has a strong grasp of the issues that are important in Wales: the need for a fairer funding formula, fresh thinking on wealth creation and a stronger focus on the environment.

"I know he is a strong supporter of devolution and I will be inviting him to hold a meeting of the Shadow Cabinet in Wales so they can see how it is making a difference here.

"Now we can go forward together as a party to the council elections in May and start talking to voters about what matters to them: fairer taxes, a greener Wales, and making our towns and cities safer."