"MING WILL MAKE AN EXCELLENT LEADER FOR THE FUTURE"

5.13.59pm GMT Thu 2nd Mar 2006

Commenting on the leadership election result, Annette Brooke said:

"Ming will make a very stable leader for our party in the years ahead. I welcome his long experience in politics, and his stature as a statesman. I have no doubt that in the event of a hung parliament; Ming will be an excellent representative of the party at the highest levels."

On having supported Simon Hughes, Annette further commented:

"It is really sad that Simon didn't win today. It was unfortunate that he made a mistake with the media at the beginning of his campaign. As party president, he will continue to play a very important role in the party and as a campaigner. He will still take a strong an principled stance on civil liberties, social justice and on the environment."