In his keynote speech at the Liberal Democrat party conference, Ed Davey outlined his vision for the party’s future, celebrating their recent success in winning the largest number of MPs in over 100 years. He expressed gratitude to all members, volunteers, councillors, and candidates who played a part in this achievement.
Davey emphasized the importance of unity, discipline, and focus within the party, acknowledging the hard work and dedication of everyone involved in the election campaign. He highlighted the role of the party’s staff team, parliamentary staff, campaigns team, and candidates in their success, thanking them for their contributions.
Reflecting on the party’s journey over the past four years, Davey noted the challenges they faced after a disappointing general election result. He emphasized the importance of listening to constituents, understanding their problems, and rebuilding trust with the public. He pointed to the party’s success in local elections and the need to continue focusing on community politics to address people’s concerns.
The cornerstone of Davey’s speech was the party’s commitment to addressing the health and care crisis in the country. He highlighted the strain on the NHS, with long waiting lists and staff shortages, and the need for a transformation in the way health and care services are delivered. Davey called for a focus on community services to provide care more quickly and locally, reducing the burden on hospitals.
Addressing the financial challenges facing the NHS, Davey emphasized the need for upfront investments in frontline services to improve patient care and reduce waiting times. He criticized the short-term thinking of the government, which leads to emergency funding announcements year after year, instead advocating for long-term solutions to make the NHS more resilient.
Davey also stressed the importance of reforming the care system, drawing on his personal experiences as a carer for his mother, grandmother, and son. He highlighted the struggles faced by carers and called for better support and recognition for their vital role in society. Davey urged the government to prioritize care services and work towards a fairer system for all carers.
In addition to health and care, Davey touched on other key issues the party will focus on, including the cost of living, sewage, nature, and the climate. He called for bold action to address these challenges and emphasized the party’s role in holding the government accountable and advocating for practical solutions for a better future.
Looking ahead to the next election, Davey urged party members to continue their hard work in communities across the country, building on their recent successes and striving for further victories. He emphasized the party’s values of decency, compassion, and respect for the rule of law as the antidote to extremism and populism in politics.
As the Liberal Democrats celebrate their recent achievements and look towards the future, Davey’s vision for the party is clear: to continue listening to constituents, addressing their concerns, and working towards a fairer, more open society for all. With a strong team of MPs and a dedicated membership, the party aims to build on its success and make a positive impact on the country’s future.