In his address at the party’s spring conference, Sir Ed Davey implored Liberal Democrats to “turn this election into a once-in-a-generation occasion.”
He demanded that members “bring the blue wall tumbling down” and argued that his party is the only one offering transformational change in the general election.
In his speech on Sunday in York, the party leader focused on the National Health Service (NHS) while outlining reforms to ensure that all citizens have access to a GP, dentist, or pharmacist.
An election date has yet to be determined.
It must be completed by January of the following year; this week, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak ruled out conducting elections on May 2 after having previously stated that they would take place in the latter part of the year.
Mr. Sunak was urgently exhorted by Sir Ed to “go to the palace” and request a general election.
Conservatives and Labour, in his opinion, were “attempting to cloak themselves in the guise of change when, in reality, they are both advocating for the maintenance of the status quo.”
He asserted that the Liberal Democrats “will deliver a fair deal” and seek to overhaul the entire system.
Since winning eleven seats in the most recent general election in 2019, the party has acquired four formerly Conservative constituencies in southern England through by-elections. The counties above are as follows: North Shropshire, Tiverton and Honiton in Devon, Chesham and Amersham in Buckinghamshire, and Frome in Somerset.
With particular emphasis on the National Health Service (NHS), Sir Ed advocated for a health service prioritising primary and community healthcare.
He stated that investment in community services was necessary “to save money and lives ultimately.”
Sunak denies speculation of May general election
He added that rather than pouring money into crisis after crisis with no tangible results. “This benefits the NHS.” Added value for taxpayers. Enhanced patient care.”
Utilising the conference as a springboard, the Liberal Democrats are preparing to expand into traditionally Conservative strongholds, including additional seats in the south and south-west of England.
“In so many parts of the country, only we can beat the Conservatives,” according to Sir Ed. “And we must.”
“Knock on five million doors” and “send more Liberal Democrats to Parliament,” he urged the membership.
Although opinion polls indicate that Labour is well positioned to secure the election, Sir Ed has declined to comment on speculation regarding a power-sharing agreement in the event of a hung parliament.
Earlier in the week, he stated, “I do not believe in pacts or deals preceding an election.”
