About our Ed Davey news
Latest news on Ed Davey, Liberal Democrat leader who led his party to significant gains in the 2024 UK general election, including key policies, campaign highlights and future plans.
Sir Ed Davey has overseen a major revival for the Liberal Democrats in the July 2024 general election, with the party winning its highest ever number of seats. As leader since 2020, Davey campaigned on issues like rejoining the EU single market, investing in the NHS, and tackling sewage pollution. His quirky campaign stunts, including paddleboarding and bungee jumping, drew both praise and criticism but helped raise the party's profile.
The Liberal Democrats made their biggest breakthrough in southern England, winning many seats from the Conservatives in areas that voted Remain in the 2016 Brexit referendum. Davey's "For a Fair Deal" manifesto pledged to reverse Brexit's economic damage, invest £50 billion extra per year in the NHS, and provide free personal care for the elderly. He ruled out working with the Conservatives but left open the possibility of cooperation with Labour.
During the campaign, Davey faced scrutiny over his role as a minister during the Post Office Horizon scandal, expressing regret but saying he had been misled by officials. He also called for a review of gambling laws amid the election betting controversy, while admitting he had previously bet on election outcomes himself.
Looking ahead, Davey has pledged to be a constructive opposition voice, pushing for electoral reform and closer ties with Europe. With the Liberal Democrats now the third largest party in Parliament, he aims to position them as a credible alternative to both Labour and the Conservatives ahead of the next election.
As the dust settles on a transformative election, Ed Davey's leadership has revived Liberal Democrat fortunes and reshaped British politics. Follow our feed for the latest updates on Davey and the Liberal Democrats as they adjust to their expanded role in Parliament.