A MONMOUTHSHIRE councillor has left the Liberal Democrats because he cannot support the decisions taken by the party's leader Nick Clegg.

Councillor James George, who represents the Lansdown ward, in Abergavenny on Monmouthshire County Council, said his decision to leave the party and join Welsh Labour is no reflection on local Liberal Democrats.

Councillor George, who was elected in 2008 and is also a Town Councillor, said: "This wasn’t an easy decision and I retain a great deal of respect for my former Lib Dem colleagues on Monmouthshire Council. My decision is no reflection on them."

"It is however a reflection on the decisions taken by Nick Clegg and the Lib Dems in the UK Government."

"I cannot continue to support his leadership and thee decisions that he and his government have taken."

He also said he could not support the decision to treble tuition fees for students.

"Welsh Labour has shown there is an alternative by promising to protect Welsh students," he added.

Cllr George said his main priority will still be his constituents and is looking forward to working with Welsh Labour.

"Nothing has changed and I will do my best to look after them," he added.