Hughes launches bid for Deputy Leader of the Liberal Democrats (Southwark Liberal Democrats)

Southwark Liberal Democrats <info@southwark-libdems.org.uk>

Hughes launches bid for Deputy Leader of the Liberal Democrats

May 28, 2010 11:00 AM
Originally published by Simon Hughes MP

Simon Hughes today [Friday 28th May] launched his bid to become Deputy Leader of the Liberal Democrat Parliamentary Party in the House of Commons.

On launching his bid, Simon stressed the importance of the role of Deputy Leader in helping to retain the party's distinctive and independent voice in parliament and in the country. Simon pledged to use his experience inside and outside parliament to help the party through this period of great change as Liberal Democrats enter national government for the first time in generations.

Simon's bid is supported by the Rt Hon Dr Vince Cable MP, outgoing Liberal Democrat Deputy Leader and new Secretary of State for Business Innovation and Skills, and other colleagues from England, Scotland and Wales.

Making his announcement Simon Hughes said:

"After campaigning for three decades for liberal democracy, in Bermondsey and Old Southwark, London and around the country, it would be a great honour to serve my party as Deputy Leader.

"Our party is at the beginning of a exciting journey in difficult and challenging times. We are now in government and implementing Liberal Democrat policies for the first time in generations. The first UK coalition for 65 years will mean great changes and challenges for Liberal Democrat MPs and our party around the country.

"I believe that I have the strength and breadth of experience to make sure that our party is a strong, supportive but independent voice within and around the coalition. We must hold fast to our ambition to grow our party and expand the number and diversity of Liberal Democrat elected representatives at all levels of government in the five years ahead.

Backing Simon's bid to succeed him, Vince Cable MP said:

"Simon has given the most phenomenal service to the party over his 27 years as an MP

"He represents the best traditions of the Liberal Democrats, both as a parliamentary campaigner and community activist.

"Simon is the person best placed to follow me as Deputy Leader and uphold the values of our party"

Note to editors

1. Simon's chosen slogan for his deputy leadership bid is - "Simon Hughes, The Life and Soul of Our Party"

2. The support of 5 MPs is required for a valid nomination. Simon already has pledges of support from 25 Liberal Democrat MPs. In this election, an overall majority requires the votes of 29 MPs.

3. Nominations for the post of Deputy Leader of the Parliamentary Party of the Liberal Democrat Party close on Wednesday 2nd of June.