Fight for Remain by joining the Lib Dems, says Cable

Sir Vince Cable has urged disillusioned Labour and Tory supporters to jump ship to the Liberal Democrats and sink Brexit on the eve of what is almost certain to be his last party conference as leader.

As the Lib Dems gather in Brighton, some in the party remain unhappy at Sir Vince’s “slow motion resignation”, but the former business secretary is trying to put out a positive message as he talks up the prospect of creating a political middle with muscle.

Sir Vince insisted a fresh referendum on the terms of EU withdrawal was vital. He said: “We enter this conference season with Brexit on a knife edge. It’s our duty to make sure we secure the people’s vote the country desperately needs.

“Hopefully, we can help Labour moderates put pressure on their leadership to join us in this fight.”

The Lib Dem leader added: “I want to make an open pitch to the people of this country who are fed up with the extremes of the current Conservative and Labour parties.

“Whether you see yourself as a liberal, social democrat, progressive, or centrist there is a home for you here.”

In a bid to confront widespread criticism of his leadership ahead of the conference, Sir Vince last week announced he would stand down once Brexit was “resolved or stopped”.

However, the move proved controversial as Sir Vince refused to set out a firm leaving date.

The conference is likely to see a jostling for position among potential leaders, such as Sir Vince’s deputy, Jo Swinson, and Sir Ed Davey, the former energy secretary.