Ed Davey is facing increasing dissent within the Liberal Democrats following the resignation of a senior frontbench figure on Friday. Charlie Maynard, the party's Treasury spokesperson, has stepped down in an effort to unseat Davey amid frustrations regarding the party's inability to resonate with voters.

Support for Davey

In response to Maynard's resignation, Daisy Cooper, the party’s deputy leader, expressed her support for Davey, stating that he has the backing of the "vast majority of MPs" who wish for him to lead them into the next election. Cooper emphasized that the party is crucial in opposing a potential Reform UK government, asserting:

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"We Liberal Democrats are the last line of defence against a Reform UK government, and Ed is determined to lead a strong and united party into the next general election whenever it comes."

Cooper also referenced Davey's remarks at the party conference, where he highlighted the ongoing struggle against right-wing politics that threaten to reshape the country.

Recent Developments

Maynard's resignation, first reported by the Financial Times, follows the departure of Alison Bennett, the Lib Dem care and carers spokesperson, just four days earlier. Davey has been at the helm of the party since 2019, initially as acting leader and officially from August 2020. Under his leadership, the party achieved its most successful result in over 100 years during the 2024 general election, securing 71 MPs and becoming the third largest party in the House of Commons.