LIBERAL Democrat MEP Chris Davies has won another poll after being re-elected in the Euro elections.

He has been chosen as the new leader of the 12-strong group of British Lib Dems in the European Parliament.

Mr Davies (49), who represents the North West constituency, wants his party to be at the forefront of arguing in favour of the new EU constitution.

He said: "The elections have strengthened the Liberal Democrat position in the new Parliament, giving us two extra seats. We have experience and greater influence, and I want to ensure that we use this to shape and sometimes to challenge new EU laws."

Mr Davies is known for his controversial views on topics such as drugs. He said: "I told my colleagues that as group leader I would have to be less outspoken and more circumspect than in the past. After they had stopped cheering, they elected me unopposed!"

Mr Davies was MP for Littleborough and Saddleworth between 1995-97 before becoming an MEP in 1999.