Liz Lynne urges Oaten supporters to back Huhne

12.00.00am GMT Thu 19th Jan 2006

As the Liberal Democrat leadership contest loses one of its contenders, Liz Lynne, Lib Dem MEP for the West Midlands, today added to those thanking Mark Oaten for his effort to help offer a range of candidates in the forthcoming Liberal Democrat leadership election.

Speaking today in Strasbourg, Liz said:

"We are all very grateful for Mark's effort in making this a race rather than simply a coronation.

"I urge those who were in favour of Mark to now support Chris Huhne.

"With his down to earth approach to policy making, sound judgment and immense experience, the short time Chris has spent at Westminster is greatly overshadowed by his time as a leading financial journalist, a city economist and as an MEP; all characteristics of a leader who will provide direction and lead the party to even greater success at the next general election."

ENDS