Paul Rowen backs Nick Clegg

12.00.00am GMT Tue 20th Nov 2007

Rochdale MP Paul Rowen has revealed his reasons behind backing Nick Clegg MP to be Lib Dem Leader. Paul worked with Nick on the recent UK Border's Bill and has been particularly impressed with Nick's work as the Lib Dem Shadow Secretary for Home Affairs.

Mr Rowen said: "Nick has the energy, enthusiasm and ideas to take our party forward in the North West. I have worked extensively with him and I feel he will be an excellent leader. Also, I am pleased to back a candidate in a Northern seat. That is an added advantage and will lead to further growth throughout the North West. Many members including my predecessors Sir Cyril Smith and Liz Lynne MEP are supporting Nick's positive campaign to lead this party to further success. Nick has been outstanding in his position as our Home Affairs Spokesperson - speaking out on issues like civil liberties, detention without trial and ID Cards. I think he will make an excellent Leader and I know many of my parliamentary colleagues feel the same."

Nick Clegg came to Rochdale just before the local elections this year where he visited Rochdale Online before going to Kingsway, Balderstone and Kirkholt, Milkstone and Deeplish, Middleton, Heywood and Central Rochdale then hosting a rally for party members at St Clements Church in Spotland. The Liberal Democrats subsequently gained the seats they needed to take overall control of Rochdale Council.

Mr Rowen said: "His visit in May was hugely appreciated. I know he was hugely impressed with the set up and team at Rochdale Online. He has mentioned the website a number of times since. If Nick is leader, I am sure he will reach out to many new voters in places like Rochdale. The next few years are vital for the Liberal Democrats. If Nick is leader we will see a no-nonsense approach to things like crime and disorder, health and education. Nick will be someone who reaches out beyond Westminster. I have no doubt that if elected leader then we will see significantly more Liberal Democrat MP's in the House of Commons. I think Nick Clegg as our leader will be good news for the people of this Town. I look forward to continuing my work with him."