Cable on course to lead the Lib Dems as Davey pulls out

SIR VINCE CABLE looks set to become Liberal Democrat leader after all of his party’s senior MPS ruled themselves out of the race to succeed Tim Farron.

Nominations are open for another three weeks but after former cabinet minister Sir Ed Davey said he would not run for family reasons, Sir Vince appeared to be on course for a coronation as the only declared candidate.

The party is facing its second hunt for a new leader in two years following the post-election resignation of Mr Farron over the conflict between his faith and political career.

If elected, Sir Vince, 74, would be the oldest leader of a major party since Sir Winston Churchill, who was 80 when he stepped down as Tory leader. By the time of the next scheduled election in 2022 he would be 79 – older than any elected Prime Minister except William Gladstone, who was aged 82 in 1892.

The news also raises the prospect that three pensioners will lead the main parties into the next general election, which is expected in 2022.

In 2022, Jeremy Corbyn, the Labour leader, will be 73 and Theresa May, the Tory leader, will be 65. In contrast, Nigel Farage, if he stands to be leader of the UK Independence Party, will be 58.

The leadership contest is open to all 12 Lib Dem MPS, who must secure the support of two colleagues to stand. But other potential candidates, including deputy leader Jo Swinson and chief whip Alistair Carmichael have ruled themselves out.

Earlier this month, The Daily Telegraph disclosed Sir Vince had agreed, if he wins, to step down as leader after two years to let Jo Swinson take over.