From Strength to Strength

At our annual general meeting on 18 November, CLDs elected co-founder Councillor Linda Chung as Chair for 2014.

Incoming Chair, Cllr Linda Chung who will be defending her Council seat in Hampstead town next May, said:

"I am pleased to continue to steer Chinese LIberal Democrats from strength to strength. From participation via the All Party Parliamentary groups and community grass root organisations, to working with Liberal Democrat local parties, Chinese Liberal Democrats strive to inform government policy and to campaign on issues that of concern to the Chinese community. These range from immigration, to education and employment. to the economy."

In the past year, CLDs has held "East West networking events" with Business Secretary Dr Vince Cable MP and Under Secretary of State for Women and Equalities, Jo Swinson MP and also produced a report on "UK China Twinned cities" shortly to be published with a Foreword by Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg MP.

Phil Ling retains his post as Treasurer but will be stepping down as Chair due to increasing work commitments.

"It has been a privilege for me to serve as Chair this year and during that time I have brought into the organisation a new Strategic and Business plan for outreach and growth. However due to added responsibilities as a senior consultant I feel that I am unable to carry on this dual role as both Chair and Treasurer" said Mr Ling.

Indeed with the expanded vision and new energy that has been injected into the organisation, CLDs have had to expand their executive team to take on the "next generation" of British Chinese politicians: Parliamentary Candidate Sarah Yong and former Olympic Ambassador Steven Cheung have been elected as Vice-Chairs along with Merlene Emerson and Jerry Cheung. Alex Melia, a candidate for Brent Council in the local elections next year takes on the post of Secretary in place of Roger Crouch.

"I am sorry to see a few of our former colleagues step down due to competing pressures on their time but delighted by the addition of new blood and fresh energy. We need them to help make our organisation relevant and vibrant to the Chinese communities as well as to young people and students." commented Vice-Chair Emerson

Other executive members include Cllr Sam Li of Lewes and Cllr Alex Payton Newbury (who was elected in May this year in a byelection).

The AGM was followed by a stimulating and interactive talk by international expert, Paul Reynolds on "The Superpowers: US and China".