Farron launches Lib Dem leadership bid

Senior Liberal Democrat Tim Farron MP has launched his bid to be leader of the Liberal Democrats. Tim said that 'Britain needs an effective liberal voice more than ever.'

Following his re-election as MP last week with a rock solid majority of 8,949, Tim has received hundreds of messages urging him to stand to be leader of his party from members, councillors and parliamentarians across the UK.

On Monday the leaders of the Welsh and Scottish Liberal Democrats, Kirsty Williams AM and Willie Rennie MSP, urged Tim to stand, describing him as "a committed liberal, a brilliant communicator, an outstanding campaigner and an inspirational leader".

Tim has also gained pubic support from former party leader David Steel, Mark Williams MP, John Pugh MP, Greg Mulholland MP, Lord Taylor of Goss Moor and Duncan Hames.

Since Thursday over 10,000 people have joined the Liberal Democrats and anyone who joins the party before the end of May will be eligible to vote in the leadership election. Tim is urging liberal supporters to join the party and back him to be the party leader. To join the party a simple form can be found here: http://www.libdems.org.uk/joining

Tim said: "The Liberal Democrats can have pride in the last five years. Our achievements will make the country a better and fairer place. However, I believe our party needs a fresh start and think I am best the person to help lead our fightback.

"Now more than ever Britain needs a political party who will stand up for the environment, human rights, equality and liberalism. I want to be the person who helps our party fightback and believe I have the skills, vision and voice to give our country the liberal voice it needs. The party must rebuild from the ground up. We have done it before and I want to make sure that we do it again."

Tim's campaign website can be found here: www.tim2lead.co.uk