31-10-02

Barrett promoted in Lib Dem reshuffle

John Barrett, the Scottish Liberal Democrat MP for Edinburgh West, has been promoted by Charles Kennedy to become a spokesman on International Development.

The move follows Mr Barrett's work on the House of Commons' International Development Select Committee, in which he has looked at such issues as the famine in Southern Africa and regeneration of Afghanistan following the military attacks last year.

In a statement, Mr Barrett, said:

"I am delighted to have been asked by Charles Kennedy to take on this new post.

"While there are a lot of positive steps the UK Government has taken in terms of development, there remain many issues needing addressed, such as improving the effectiveness of EU aid, more comprehensive cancellation of third world debt, tackling corruption and promoting good governance abroad."

"As a member of party which has often led the way on development policies, I look forward to representing the Liberal Democrats on these issues in the House of Commons."

ENDS

Notes to Editors:

* John Barrett will continue as the Liberal Democrat Member of the House of Commons Select Committee on International Development.

* John Barrett has been appointed an International Development Spokesman and Deputy to Jenny Tonge, the Liberal Democrat Shadow Secretary of State for International Development.