Nicol StephenFormer Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Nicol Stephen has been invited to join the House of Lords.

Commenting, Mr Stephen said:

“It came as quite a surprise to be asked by Nick Clegg to join the House of Lords. It is obviously a very considerable honour.

“It is also a great opportunity to continue to be involved in politics and carry on fighting for the interests of Aberdeen and the North East.

“However I think it will take quite some to get used to being called Lord Stephen – particularly by my children!”

Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Tavish Scott MSP congratulated Mr Stephen, saying:

“I’m very pleased for Nicol, Caris and the Stephen family. This is a very well deserved recognition of Nicol’s contribution to Scotland and the North East in particular. I know he’ll be a powerful advocate for more powers for Scotland’s Parliament and for the country in the House of Lords.”