Vince Cable, Leader of the Liberal Democrats, this evening hailed the best ever gains of councillors in local elections in the party’s history. |
Alongside over 700 gains the party landed serious blows to the Conservatives with stunning victories to gain councils including Chelmsford, Hinckley and Bosworth and the Vale of the White Horse – as well as holding the Mayorality in Bedford. |
With the party on track to secure a national equivalent vote share of 19% – the best since 2010 – Cable hailed the result as a clear sign the Liberal Democrats are the strongest party for remain going into the European Elections. |
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“These are spectacularly good results, stemming from the hard work and the commitment of our campaigners all around the country. |
“This is a springboard to the European elections in three weeks’ time, when we hope to do well again. |
“Ours is the strongest Remain voice in British politics. Every Liberal Democrat vote is a vote to stop Brexit.” |
Notes |
At time of publication, the Liberal Democrats have won 793 council seats. |
The results saw Liberal Democrats secure power of 18 councils |
Notable gains include defeating the leaders of Bath and North East Somerset Council, and St Albans Council and in Jacob Rees-Mogg’s own ward. |
Liberal Democrat councils returned today: |
Bath and North East Somerset |
Chelmsford |
Cotswolds |
Eastbourne |
Eastleigh |
Hinckley and Bosworth |
Mole Valley |
North Devon |
North Norfolk |
Oadby and Wigston |
Somerset and West Taunton |
South Lakeland |
South Somerset |
Teinbridge |
Three Rivers |
Vale of the White Horse |
Watford |
Winchester |