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Lib Dem MP says she is preparing a leadership pitch
Wera Hobhouse MP appears on Sky News. Photograph: Sky. - Credit: Archant
Liberal Democrat MP Wera Hobhouse says she is seriously considering running for leader of the party.
German-born MP Hobhouse, who started her political career as a Conservative councillor, was first elected as a Lib Dem MP in 2017.
While the Lib Dem leadership competition is yet to kick off, Hobhouse confirmed she is preparing a pitch to run to replace Jo Swinson.
Speaking on Sky News, the MP said that the 2019 election result was "disappointing" but also the party had "made a lot of progress".
"We were definitely in the game compared to the previous four elections".
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"Where do we go next? We obviously have to think about our future stance on the European Union and potential future of membership , if all, now that the fight to stop Brexit is over.
"And the other thing is where do we fight our battles in the broader political spectrum".
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Asked if she was considering standing, she said: "I am considering to stand simply because I want to be also part of that big debate we are going to have and I'm preparing a pitch. I'm gathering my team together, and I'm looking forward to a good mature debate.
"Liberal Democrats actually fight good internal debates, selections and elections, because we actually believe in that discussion and that open transparent debate about our future."
A new Lib Dem leader is not expected to be announced until July but acting leader Ed Davey is the current bookies' favourite.
Ladbrokes gives 4/6 odds on him becoming the permanent leader, with Layla Moran on 7/4, Daisy Cooper on 8/1, Wera Hobhouse on 16/1 and Christine Jardine on 25/1.
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