THE man most likely to be Barnet Council's next deputy leader said he was “thrilled” and “honoured” to be elected last night.

He was chosen as the Conservative group deputy at a closed meeting of Barnet's Conservative councillors last night.

Cllr Lynne Hillan was elected as the group's leader.

Cllr Andrew Harper said he had been confident he would win based on conversations with his fellow councillors.

He added: “I was especially pleased that I won on the first ballot and that colleagues had confidence in me.

“I think Lynne and I together will bring a very forward focussed approach looking at the challenges we face as the council.

"We'll be a very strong team for the future."

Cllr Harper said he was looking forward to fighting the next council elections in May and presenting the party's policies.

“I think that we'll have a very good position to make the best of the record of the administration so far under Mike Freer's inspiring leadership,” he said.

He said he did not think Cllr Hillan's championship of sheltered housing warden cuts, where residential wardens would be replaced by a mobile team who would respond to emergency calls, would hinder the party's chances in May.

“I see no reason why that should be the case, I believe that it is the right decision,” he said. “It was a collective cabinet decision and I support it.

“I think Cllr Hillan brings a tremendous amount of experience, not least on the financial side of things, particularly bearing in mind that's she's been the cabinet member for resources and has successfully developed a very good budget for next year.

“I think that's going to be a very positive story.”

Cllr Harper also thought Future Shape, the council's grand plan for reorganisation would be a vote winner.

The current cabinet member for transport and the environment, Cllr Harper, was elected in May 2005 during a by-election for the Garden Suburb ward.

He was then re-elected in May 2006.

In September 2006 he joined the cabinet for member for policy and performance, gaining his current position in May 2008.

At the same time he became the Conservative group whip.

At the group meeting last night he impressed councillors with a presentation which focussed on his energy, enthusiasm and competence in the roles he has held so far in the council.