LIBDEM SELECTED TO FIGHT SCOTLAND'S ONLY TORY MP

3.23.00pm BST (GMT +0100) Tue 19th May 2009

Jim Hume, Liberal Democrat MSP for the South of Scotland, has welcomed the news that Tweeddale Councillor Catriona Bhatia has been selected by Dumfriesshire, Clydesdale and Tweeddale (DCT) Liberal Democrats to fight Scotland's only Tory MP David Mundell at the next General Election.

Following the count in Peebles where Councillor Bhatia secured over 70% of the votes from party members, Catriona said:

"I am delighted to be selected to contest this key seat and to offer the people of DCT a fresh approach. There has never been a more important time to vote Liberal Democrat. As recent events have shown the two main parties have let the people down, and I will be working hard to win this seat and become an MP that people can be proud of. The Liberal Democrats have been the only party to offer real answers to the challenges facing our country, and I intend to take that positive message to all corners of this vast constituency."

Jim Hume commented:

"Catriona is already a valuable part of the LibDem presence in the Borders and would make an excellent addition to the Westminster team."

Local Liberal Democrats are confident that they can win DCT, and Convenor of the Selection Committee, former Dumfries and Galloway Councillor Tom Russell said:

"Following a high calibre contest we are pleased that Catriona has been selected as our Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Dumfriesshire, Clydesdale and Tweeddale, and we are confident she will restore our area to its Liberal Democratic roots."

Ends