A WEST Yorkshire woman has taken a seat in the European Parliament following a nepotism row.

The Lib Dems announced yesterday that Rebecca Taylor, of Todmorden, will be the party’s new Euro-MP for Yorkshire.

The 36-year-old takes over from Diana Wallis, who stood down after failing to win election to become president of the parliament earlier this month.

Ms Wallis planned to hand over to her husband Stewart Arnold, who was second on the party’s candidate list in the last European elections in 2009.

But yesterday the Lib Dems announced Ms Taylor – who was third on the list – would take the seat instead.

She said: “It is a great privilege and honour to serve the people of Yorkshire, It is why I stood for selection in 2009 and my commitment to the region has not changed.

“It has been quite a shock to find myself in this position.

“I am thrilled to have been given this opportunity to promote jobs, growth and prosperity in the region, and help to improve health services.”