BOLTON MEP Chris Davies has been elected leader of the 12-strong group of British Liberal Democrats in the European Parliament.
Mr Davies, aged 49, who has been the party's environment spokesman for the past five years, will use the position to argue in favour of adopting the new EU constitution.
The appointment will be a surprise to some as he has a reputation for expressing controversial views on a range of issues, including the legalisation of cannabis.
He said: "I told my colleagues that as group leader I would have to be less outspoken and more circumspect than in the past."
He was elected unopposed.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article