Willie Rennie standing down as Scottish Lib Dem leader

July 12, 2021 - 5:34 pm

Willie Rennie and Vince Cable jumping — *One of the many exuberant photo ops that Willie Rennie became famous for in his time as Scottish leader.*

Willie Rennie MSP has announced he’s standing down as leader of the Scottish Liberal Democrats after leading the party through 11 elections and referendums since becoming leader in 2011:

Following his fantastic constituency result in this year’s Scottish Parliament elections, he will be continuing to serve as an MSP:

Over the last decade, there have been both gains and losses along the way, but I have enjoyed every effort.
I do love a good campaign, but it’s time for a fresh face to lead our party forward.
The new leader will have my full support, right in the bright new chapter for the Scottish Liberal Democrat story.
To the people of north-east Fife, thank you for re-electing me in May. I will continue to work for you.

Willie’s enthusiastic, welcoming presence running the front of house in the Kincardine and Deeside by-election played a large part in me getting the campaigning bug. It’s just one small example of the huge contribution Willie has made to the party over many years. During his time as leader, it’s been a tough patch for the party but we’ve come out of it in a much better state than we would have without his leadership. Thank you, Willie.

@willie_rennie isn't just my constituency colleague, he's my friend. He's also the reason why I'm an MP because he asked me to stand.
Thanks for everything you have done for the party in the last decade. Looking forward to knocking doors with you soon! https://t.co/naACIcf9f3
— Wendy Chamberlain MP (@wendychambLD) July 12, 2021

From banging the drum on mental health and education to those amazing photo-ops, Willie Rennie has been a fantastic leader, he is the best of us. Delighted he is sticking around as an MSP. Our party and our country need him. https://t.co/5OkMMxoX4d
— Ed Davey MP 🔶🇪🇺 (@EdwardJDavey) July 12, 2021

Thank you to @willie_rennie for his leadership of our Scottish Party over the last decade. His energy and clarity of communication will be much missed. And of course all those photo ops. King of the Camera. Thank you – and all the best for what comes next.https://t.co/PmnrqPot6t
— Lib Dem Lords (@LibDemLords) July 12, 2021

Best wishes to Willie Rennie. Despite our political disagreements, I’ve always respected his commitment and decency. Political leadership takes its toll and, after 10 years at the helm of his party, I’m sure he is looking forward to new challenges. https://t.co/0A5CIvCxxY
— Nicola Sturgeon (@NicolaSturgeon) July 12, 2021

News on the timetable for electing his successor will follow shortly.

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