Setting out his priorities after his election on 18th December, 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.

"In Lewisham, the 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."

Cllr Brian Robson, London Assembly candidate for Greenwich & Lewisham, commented, "Nick Clegg is going to be a great leader. Labour and the Conservatives share so many policies. The time has come for a politician who will speak up for real people and local communities - like ours in Lewisham."