Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey has defended his leadership after a senior party figure accused the party of “sleepwalking into irrelevance” ahead of its annual conference in Brighton.
Julian Brazil, the leader of Devon County Council, questioned whether Davey was the right person to lead the Liberal Democrats, arguing that the party lacked ambition and was failing to communicate messages that connected with voters.
Davey rejected the criticism, pointing to the party’s record number of MPs and gains in local government as evidence that the Liberal Democrats remain in a strong position. He also highlighted the party’s performance in Devon, where it has strengthened its presence in local politics.
The Liberal Democrats won 72 seats at the 2024 general election, their strongest parliamentary result in more than a century. However, recent polling has shown the party’s support below its 2024 vote share, prompting debate within the party about its national strategy and messaging.
Davey has sought to place greater emphasis on policy at this year’s conference, including the economy, immigration and defence. He has also presented the Liberal Democrats as a tax-cutting party, highlighting proposals including a reduction in fuel duty and promising further measures.
The Liberal Democrat leader has also argued that the division of support on the political right between the Conservatives and Reform UK presents an opportunity for his party. He said the Liberal Democrats could attract voters who are dissatisfied with the direction of the Conservative Party.
Davey has ruled out working with Reform UK in any future government and indicated that cooperation with the Conservatives would also be unlikely, while leaving open the possibility of working with Labour or the Greens.
The debate comes as the Liberal Democrats seek to maintain the momentum of their 2024 election performance while strengthening their national profile ahead of the next general election.
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