LAYLA Moran is favourite to become the next leader of the Liberal Democrats, after Sir Vince Cable announced he would stand down.
Sir Vince says his time in the role will end in May – unless there is a snap general election – with a leadership contest set to take place.
UPDATE: Moran still silent on leadership question
Neither Ms Moran or her office have yet responded to questions about whether she will run, with the Oxford West and Abingdon MP thought to have her eyes on the job at some point in the future.
Deputy leader Jo Swinson and home affairs spokesman Ed Davey are also being tipped as candidates.
Supporters have urged former teacher Ms Moran to throw her hat in the ring after she tweeted the news of Sir Vince's forthcoming departure.
The Lib Dem education spokeswoman wrote:
Vince has just announced that, unless the country collapses into an early GE, he will be calling a new leadership election in may. @vincecable I want you to know how grateful I am for all you’ve done. Thank you so much for your service to the Party and Brexit
— Layla Moran (@LaylaMoran) March 14, 2019
A wave of supporters then pleaded with Ms Moran to stand, just two years after she took her seat in the Commons following her narrow win over Conservative Nicola Blackwood - who is now a baroness.
I agree please stand @LaylaMoran . Your energy, humanity, intelligent understanding and clear communication of abstruse problems would bring a lovely fresh breath of air to our troubled and febrile politics.
— Carol Jones #FBPE #WATON (@DriffieldRoad1) March 15, 2019
You’ve got to go for it Layla! You know education and can really help to transform it from its current state! From an exhausted teacher
— Kristian Allcorn #FBPE (@KristianAllcorn) March 14, 2019
Let's have you as the next leader.
— Michael C Hilton (@MichaelCHilton) March 14, 2019
She's by far the smartest and most capable. With proper mentorship, sky is the limit. I support her 100%.
— Fisher Lanham (@Fisher_Lanham) March 15, 2019
However, some are not entirely convinced, citing a lack of experience as a potential stumbling block.
Layla. Honestly, I don't think you're ready. 2 years in Parliament is pretty low. That being said, -no one- in the party is better suited than you. You're one of the most capable and talented MPs out there, and the country deserves your voice. Please run, and win.
— Fisher Lanham (@Fisher_Lanham) March 15, 2019
The Liberal Democrats are the joint fourth largest group in Westminster, with 11 sitting MPs, but could play an important role in any future parliament without a majority government.
Do you think she should run for leader? Leave your comments below.
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