Chinese Liberal Democrats welcome new peers (Chinese Liberal Democrats)

Chinese Liberal Democrats <info@chineselibdems.org.uk>

Chinese Liberal Democrats welcome new peers

June 3, 2010 8:00 AM

The Chinese Liberal Democrats have welcomed the elevation of two new ethnic minority Liberal Democrat peers to the House of Lords, in particular Meral Ece, the Chair of Ethnic Minority Liberal Democrats.

Commenting, Chair of Ethnic Minority Liberal Democrats, Meral Hussein Ece OBE, who will be the first ever Peer from a Turkish background said:

"I am very pleased to able to continue my work as a champion for fairness for all, no matter the colour of their skin, gender or religion.

"I feel honoured to be appointed to the House of Lords as a Working Peer. It is a huge privilege for someone from my background. I look forward to carry on the work that I have done all my life: to stand up for equality, promote tolerance, and be a voice for the disadvantaged in our communities.

"These are at the very core of everything the Liberal Democrats do."

Commenting, Campaigner and Broadcaster, Floella Benjamin OBE said:

"To be called to serve my country in the House of Lords is a privilege and an honour. This is an historic period in our politics and I am delighted to be able to play my part.

"I am proud to be a Liberal Democrat and proud to be a part of a party that has not shied away from the chance to make lasting change to this country.

"I hope over the next few years to use my voice to stand up for those who can't make themselves heard, especially children and young people and to fight for a fairer, stronger Britain."

Vice Chair of the Chinese Liberal Democrats Linda Chung commenting on the news said:

"Meral has been a great support to us here in the Chinese Liberal Democrats with help and advice when we were getting started, and now standing side by side with us as we campaign for ethnic minority issues together. We hope that her presence in the House of Lords will strengthen our campaigns."

The Liberal Democrats seek to reform the House of Lords. We recognise that whilst they exist in their current form we have to do what we can to make sure our voice is heard and the bodies work as best that they can.