Farron announces Deputy Leadership bid

Following the announcement by Vince Cable that he will be stepping down as Deputy Leader to concentrate on his new role as Secretary of State for Business, South Lakes MP Tim Farron has announced he will be standing for the position of Deputy Leader of the Liberal Democrats.

Commenting Mr Farron said:

"My most important job is as the MP for Westmorland and Lonsdale, the community I have the privilege to both serve and belong to.

"Over the last two years I've served as Shadow Secretary of State for Defra and with the new political situation, I'm keen to continue taking a leading role for the Liberal Democrats both locally and nationally.

"I've been urged by many colleagues to consider putting my name forward as a candidate for the Deputy Leader of the Lib Dems. I've talked this through with my wife Rosie and many friends in the South Lakes and I've agreed to stand.

"Whatever happens in the contest in two weeks time, I will remain Westmorland's man in Westminster and never Westminster's man in Westmorland. Whether or not I'm successful, I hope my candidacy for this senior position will bring greater influence to help strengthen and protect local services in South Lakeland."