LIB DEMS RE-ELECT GROUP LEADER

2.24.40pm BST (GMT +0100) Thu 15th May 2008

Leader of the Lib Dem Group at County Hall - Cllr Bill Hoult

Liberal Democrats on North Yorkshire County Council have re-elected Councillor Bill Hoult as their Group Leader.

At the group's Annual General Meeting in Harrogate last Saturday, Liberal Democrats from across the county unanimously elected Bill, from Knaresborough, to lead them for another year.

Bill has led the group since 2006. The 19-strong Liberal Democrats are the main opposition to the ruling Conservatives at County Hall.

Airedale Councillor Mark Wheeler will again be Bill's deputy, whilst Ripon's Bernard Bateman is group Chairman.

Cllr Hoult said afterwards:

"I am delighted that the group has put its trust in me again. I look forward to the challenges of the next year. With Council Tax rocketing and services being cut, it is more important than ever to hold the Tories to account."

"Whilst the Labour group argue amongst themselves, and vote with the Tories more often than not, the crucial job of providing an effective opposition at County Hall is left to the Liberal Democrats."