A new leader of the Labour group on Brighton and Hove City Council has been formally appointed.
Councillor Simon Burgess, 41, who represents the Queen's Park ward, last night sailed through the party's internal election uncontested following Ken Bodfish's resignation last month.
Speaking to councillors at a group meeting in King's House, Hove, he said: "If Labour is about anything in this city, it's about tackling poor living conditions, caring for people, caring about the environment and providing good public services anyone can use."
Thanking his colleagues for giving him the opportunity to lead the party he rallied councillors to fight for a Labour victory in next year's local elections.
He said: "It's essential for the most marginalised as well as the majority of our population that Labour wins in 2007."
Coun Burgess is expected to be appointed leader of the city council on February 23. Until then, deputy leader Sue John will serve as acting leader.
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