Charlie Maynard, the MP for Witney, has resigned from his role as a Treasury spokesman on Friday in a move reported to be aimed at removing leader Sir Ed Davey, reports BritPanorama.
The Liberal Democrats confirmed the senior MP’s departure from the party’s front bench.
According to the Financial Times, Mr. Maynard’s resignation is intended to prompt Sir Ed’s removal, with the politician reportedly asking parliamentary colleagues to support a vote of no confidence in the party leader.
Lib Dem deputy leader Daisy Cooper backed Sir Ed, stating that the “vast majority” of the party’s MPs wanted him to remain as leader and were “furious at this distraction.”
She added, “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.”
Mr. Maynard himself declined to comment.
His resignation comes amid reported frustration with the party’s lack of progress since the 2024 election, which saw it secure a record 72 MPs.
Since then, the party has gained little ground in the polls, with the latest YouGov survey placing the Liberal Democrats at 11%—just below their share in 2024.
The events surrounding Mr. Maynard’s resignation highlight ongoing tensions within the Liberal Democrats as they navigate a challenging political landscape.
