The new leader of Harrow Borough Council’s Labour group and the authority has said he is looking forward to taking the party to the next election and beyond.

Councillor David Perry, the portfolio holder for community and cultural services, was voted in at the group’s annual general meeting on Monday April 15.

He will replace Cllr Thaya Idaikkadar after the next full council meeting on May 23 when a new council leader will be formally elected.

In a statement Cllr Perry thanked Cllr Idaikkadar for all his hard work and dedication.

He said: “I am honoured to hold this position and I am looking forward to taking the Labour group into the next election in 2014 and beyond.”

“Cllr Idaikkadar took over the leadership of Harrow Council in November 2012 at what was a crucial time facing the council.

“His leadership steered the council through a very difficult budget setting process when the council’s finances were being cut by the Government.”

The Marlborough ward councillor added that he will continue the important work on behalf of the residents most in need and work toward a positive vision of the future.

Cllr Idaikkadar replaced Bill Stephenson as leader of the Labour group in October after the longtime leader stood down due to poor health.

Cllr Margaret Davine will continue in her role as deputy leader of the Ccuncil and London Assembly Member Navin Shah was elected secretary of the group.