ALLOW me to thank those readers who voted for my party on June 10, electing me as the first Liberal Democrat MEP for the North West of England. It is a huge privilege to have the chance to represent the whole of the region I love.

No doubt I shall have political differences in the European Parliament with the other North West MEPs, but I hope there will also be many occasions when we cross party barriers and come together to work for the interests of people here.

Unlike previous elections under the old system, this one gave a result which was genuinely fair and democratic. People in the North West are now represented by 10 MEPs from three different parties, so they have a choice as to whom to approach when they need assistance.

Those who like my views, who want to see the European Union reformed but also strengthened, who want tougher measures to protect our environment, and who broadly agree with my Liberal Democrat principles, are welcome to contact me. Those who take a different approach can always seek another MEP who may more closely reflect their opinions. There may even be times when I shall quite enjoy advising them to do so! I am pleased that Britain did not follow the practice of most European countries and elect its MEPs from national party lists. The regional approach we have adopted is far better. But even so, with seven million people in the North West, all the new MEPs must be wondering how best to keep in touch with people across the region. It will be a challenge.

It is not until July 20 that I formally become an MEP. There is much to be done and, as ye, I have no assistant. In the meantime, anyone wishing to contact me is welcome to write to my home address - but please bear with me if I am a little slow to reply.

CHRIS DAVIES MEP (elect), 4 High Kinders, Greenfield, Oldham OL3 7BH.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.