HEREFORD'S Liberal Democrat MP Paul Keetch has been asked by his party to serve as a member of the House of Commons Whips team.

Mr Keetch, who announced he would stand down as an MP at the next general election, said he was delighted to have been asked.

"My Chief Whip asked me if I would be prepared to join the team to offer some advice and support to our newer and younger MPs," said Mr Keetch.

"Ming Campbell also wanted me to do this role, so I am delighted to help. I will have some pastoral commitments to our MPs and specifically advise them on how the Chamber works and procedure in the Commons. I am really looking forward to it."

Mr Keetch will continue to serve as a member of the House of Commons Foreign Affairs Select Committee.