Tord Lien, one of the leading figures in the Progress Party, was nominated for a 'Jump in the Sea' challenge over Facebook by two of his Progress Party colleagues, Ulrikke Holmøy and Geir Kristoffersen. 

 

On May 1, he leapt into the water at Ranheim, a popular bathing spot near Trondheim. 

 

"I have a tendency not to say 'no' when challenged," the minister told the Adressa newspaper. " "It was not hot, either onshore or offshore." 

 

After about 15 seconds in the water, which he estimated was no more than five degrees centigrade, he leapt out and quickly dried himself off and pulled on a jumper. 

 

A cold water-bathing chain craze is sweeping Norway, after arriving from the Faroe Islands just over a week ago. 

 

Those who accept the challenge gain the right to nominate others to themselves leap into the water  for a 24 hour period, or pay a penalty which normally involves buying the challenger large quantities of alcohol. 

 

Lien has challenged four state secretaries in the government  to follow his lead.