Twickenham MP Vince Cable is to seek the leadership of the Liberal Democrats.
Mr Cable, who regained his seat in parliament from Conservative Tania Mathias at the last election, announced this morning that he has put his name forward to replace current leader Tim Farron.
He could face fellow south west London MP Ed Davey, who also won back his Kingston & Surbiton seat at the last election, and former health minister Norman Lamb.
Mr Cable said: “With 20 years on the national political stage I am passionate as ever about our liberal values.
“I am ready to commit my energy, enthusiasm and experience to the task of leading the Liberal Democrats through what will be a period of chronic uncertainty.
“With the prospect of another election looming large, we must be ready for the fight.”
He added that issues such as Brexit and the NHS were too pressing to be left to Labour and the Conservatives.
“The Conservatives are in disarray and in retreat while the Labour Party outperformed expectations but complacently believes that ‘one more heave’ will see it into office,” said Mr Cable.
“There is a big space in British politics which I am determined that we should occupy.”
East Dunbartonshire MP Jo Swinson ruled herself out of a leadership bid a few days ago, saying she would instead seek to become deputy leader.
