Bell Pottinger Public Affairs (BPPA), part of the Bell Pottinger Group, has hired Stephen Lotinga as an Account Director. His appointment further strengthens BPPA's Liberal Democrat credentials - Stephen will join director Neil Stockley, widely regarded as one of the most respected Liberal Democrat consultants in the public affairs industry.

Stephen has served as the Liberal Democrats' Senior Adviser on Public Services and Health in the party's Policy and Research Unit since May 2009. Prior to that he was the Culture, Media and Sport Adviser for two years, and had responsibility for Constitutional Affairs and Youth and Equalities issues. Stephen has also worked for Don Foster MP, the Youth Justice Board, Better Regulation Executive, and Tom Brake MP.

Chairman of Bell Pottinger Public Affairs Peter Bingle said: "Stephen brings with him a first hand insight into today's Liberal Democrats, as well as expertise in key policy areas. We are delighted to welcome Stephen to the team."

Stephen said: "I am very excited to be joining the most successful and dynamic public affairs team in the business and at such a critical point in British politics."

BPPA has also confirmed the appointment of Steve Summers on a permanent basis. A qualified solicitor, Steve practised at Taylor Wessing LLP for over five years, specialising in commercial property and property finance, and acting for developers, landlords, tenants and banks. He has been a Conservative Party activist for the past 15 years, and brings with him a wealth of experience in local government and planning.

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Notes for Editor:

1. For further information on Stephen Lotinga's appointment, please contact Neil Stockley at Bell Pottinger Public Affairs on 020 7861 2416.

2. Steve Summers has been a Conservative member of Westminster City Council since 2006. Before joining Bell Pottinger as an Account Director in April 2010 on a temporary basis, he resigned from the Planning Applications Sub-Committee, which he had chaired. He does no work for Bell Pottinger on any planning or development matter within Westminster.

For further information on Steve Summer's appointment, please contact Emma Waterfall at Bell Pottinger Public Affairs on 020 7861 3812.