Rochdale Euro-MP Chris Davies says Kennedy must step down

Date published: 06/01/2006

Rochdale Euro-MP Chris Davies, leader of the British Liberal Democrat MEPs, today called on Charles Kennedy to step down for the good of his party.

Mr Davies said: "We have to face up to political realities.  The situation was difficult. It is now impossible.

"People are not going to vote for a party because they feel sorry for its leader.  The harsh reality is that an alcoholic who has admitted the problem is not the same as an alcoholic who has mastered the problem.

"Charles has the support and sympathy of party members across the country, but I am not convinced that he now has their confidence.

"He should take the weekend to think about his position and on Monday announce that he will step down for the good of the party.  If he does not the sore will remain open and will fester.

"There is no shortage of people wanting to lead the Liberal Democrats and to take us forward.  A caretaker leader should be asked to take charge while a leadership contest is conducted.

"The back-me-or-sack-me call that has made will solve nothing.  It is a nonsense.  If no candidate chooses to challenge Charles it will simply demonstrate that Liberal Democrats don't like to kick a man when he is down.

"Further criticism of his leadership is inevitable if he remains. There is certain to be a contested leadership election and the only question now is when it will take place.  In the meantime the sore will continue to fester. This will not be good for the party and it will not be good for Charles personally.

"He is the most successful Liberal leader we have had in 80 years.  He should step down now and enjoy his achievements being celebrated.  To delay would place his reputation at risk."