Nick Clegg elected Lib Dem leader

3.28.52pm GMT Tue 18th Dec 2007

Nick Clegg MP, Leader of the Liberal Democrats

Nick Clegg has won the race to become the next Liberal Democrat leader. He beat Chris Huhne, to win by 20,988 votes to 20,477 votes.

In his acceptance speech Mr Clegg said he wanted his leadership to be about "ambition and change", saying "we want to change politics and change Britain".

He said he wanted to mark the "beginning of Britain's liberal future".

Mr Clegg, speaking after the announcement at a central London hotel, acknowledged it had been a "close fought contest" and praised his rival, who he said he was looking forward to working with.

He said he wanted to attract those voters who share liberal values, but do not currently vote for the party.

He thanked Vincent Cable for a "spellbinding" performance as acting leader - and praised his predecessor Sir Menzies Campbell, whose resignation in October sparked the leadership race.