It’s no-go for Jo as favourite rules out Lib Dems’ top job
JO Swinson has stunned colleagues by announcing she is not standing for the Lib Dem leadership.
The Scottish MP had been favourite to take over from troubled Tim Farron.
But Ms Swinson, 37, insists she is running for the deputy post and is not interested in the top job.
She said: “When Tim resigned, my instincts told me the best way I can serve the party is still as deputy leader. Over the years, I’ve learned I should trust my instincts. “My reflections and conversations have confirmed my conviction that the right role for me now is deputy leader.” Ms Swinson’s decision means the Lib Dems will most likely now choose from an all-male line-up. Sir Vince Cable and Sir Ed Davey, who both returned to Parliament on June 8, are expected to join Norman Lamb in the contest.