Welsh Liberal Democrat leadership transition

Jane Dodds announced her resignation as leader of the Welsh Liberal Democrats after nine years in the position. Dodds stated that the party’s rebuilding efforts “should be led by a new generation” and intends to remain the Member of the Senedd for Brycheiniog Tawe Nedd.

David Chadwick MP, the MP for Brecon, Radnor and Cwm Tawe and current Liberal Democrats’ Wales spokesperson at Westminster, has formally launched a bid for the leadership. As the only candidate mentioned who meets the current constitutional eligibility requirements, Chadwick must secure 50 nominations from party members by November 16 to be confirmed as leader.

His platform emphasizes economic growth to fund stronger public services, investment in transport and infrastructure, and improved opportunities for young people to prevent them from leaving Wales. Additionally, Chadwick has criticized recent national budget measures, arguing they lack ambition for rural communities and noting the absence of a price cap on heating oil and LPG, which leaves rural households exposed to volatile global prices.