Ed Davey sets sights on prime minister role for Lib Dems
Lib Dem leader Sir Ed Davey insists he aims to be prime minister, rejecting the role of a junior coalition partner and backing the Jackdaw gas field.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
- Sir Ed Davey insists he is running to be prime minister.
- Defends the Jackdaw gas field as climate-compatible.
- Lib Dem strategy targets 27 key seats from the 2024 election.
Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey has firmly rejected the notion of settling as a junior partner in a future coalition government, boldly declaring his ambition to run for the nation's highest office during an interview regarding his party's political trajectory.
Davey acknowledged the frustration voiced by some within his own ranks over the party's visibility in a crowded political landscape. He promised to unveil ambitious policy proposals during his upcoming conference speech on Tuesday to address these concerns directly.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
Under Davey's leadership, the Lib Dems secured a record 72 MPs in the 2024 general election, capturing significant ground from the Conservatives across southern England. Despite this milestone, national opinion polls have subsequently placed the party fourth or fifth, trailing behind Labour, the Tories, the Greens, and Reform UK.
Ed Davey's declaration to vie for the premiership marks a strategic push to elevate the Liberal Democrats beyond their traditional kingmaker status. By focusing resources tightly on the 27 constituencies where they finished second in 2024—the vast majority currently held by Conservatives—the party is charting a calculated path to maximize parliamentary gains.
Addressing coalition scenarios, the Lib Dem leader ruled out any agreements with Reform UK or the Conservative Party, while declining to comment on potential talks with Labour on hypothetical terms. Party sources indicate a deliberate operational focus on winning over voters in their top target marginal seats.
"I am a candidate to be prime minister."
Ed Davey
On energy policy, Davey defended the controversial Jackdaw gas field project, expected to receive government clearance soon, arguing it meets necessary climate standards and prevents higher carbon emissions associated with importing liquefied natural gas from afar. He remained cautious, however, regarding the separate Rosebank oil field development.
Source: BBC Politics
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