Campbell will be a proud advocate for equality

3.26.41pm GMT Thu 2nd Mar 2006

DELGA Chair Kelvin Meyrick has welcomed the election of Menzies Campbell today as the new Liberal Democrat party leader.

He said, "My congratulations to Menzies on his victory. The leadership election has shown off the talent and values of our party, and after what has been a friendly contest I am sure the party will be able to unite around Menzies this weekend in Harrogate ahead of May's council elections."

"As Chair of DELGA I can also feel confident that Menzies Campbell will be a proud and consistent advocate of the cause of LGBT equality - as were his predecessors Paddy Ashdown and Charles Kennedy."

"In the midst of the leadership election the party stunned the press with our byelection victory in Dunfermline & West Fife. United under Menzies' leadership, we can look forward to greater successes to come."

Leadership Ballot Results:

Turnout: 72%

First Preferences

Menzies Campbell - 23,264

Simon Hughes - 12,081

Chris Huhne - 16,691

Simon Hughes was eliminated and his votes transferred to second preferences:

Menzies Campbell - 29,697 - elected

Chris Huhne - 21,628