Jane Dodds to step down as Welsh Liberal Democrat leader

Jane Dodds has announced her decision to resign as leader of the Welsh Liberal Democrats after nine years in the role. Dodds stated that the work of rebuilding the party “should be led by a new generation” and expressed a desire to hand over leadership now to allow time for growth before the next election.

Despite stepping down as leader, Dodds will remain the Member of the Senedd for Brycheiniog Tawe Nedd. She noted that the party currently holds only one seat in the Senedd and emphasized the need for a larger team of liberal voices in Welsh politics.

A new leadership election is expected to conclude by November 16. Under current party rules, only MPs and MSs are eligible to stand, leaving David Chadwick, the Lib Dem MP for Brecon, Radnor and Cwm Tawe, as the sole eligible candidate mentioned. Chadwick has indicated he will make a statement regarding his political future in the coming days.