UK Liberal Democrats prepare manifesto as party braces for possible snap election

The UK Liberal Democrats have started work on a new election manifesto in preparation for a possible snap election. Speaking ahead of the party's annual conference in Brighton, leader Ed Davey acknowledged that he understands the frustration of some of his MPs, who worry the party's message risks being drowned out.

Davey urged the party not to panic over static poll numbers, which sit around 12-13%. He argued that tactical voting and fragmented party loyalties mean the Lib Dems could perform even better than in 2024, when they won 72 seats — their best result in a century.

A moral responsibility

Davey emphasised the importance of discipline and focus, describing the party's role in blocking a potential Reform-led government under Nigel Farage as a "moral responsibility." He predicted that Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch would eventually seek an alliance with Farage's party. Davey said seeing anti-immigration protesters in black shirts and balaclavas, alongside rising overt racism, weighs heavily on him and reinforces the need for his party to win.

A manifesto working group, led by MP Tom Morrison, has already been set up so the party is ready if Prime Minister Andy Burnham calls an election. The Lib Dems already have several policies in place, including a proposal to rejoin the EU's single market and to sign up to a Europe-wide migration and asylum pact.

Internal debate

Some Lib Dem MPs privately complain that the party's approach to policy and messaging has been too slow and cautious, sidelining it from national debate. Others say the pace has picked up since the appointment of new political director James Holt. Davey acknowledged the frustration but urged MPs to stay focused, noting that the outcome will likely hinge on tactical voting and local campaigning, with votes potentially split five or six ways.