Rumbles joins battle to lead Lib Dems
MSP’s vow after Nicol steps down
Published:
NORTH-EAST MSP Mike Rumbles today vowed to fight for the leadership of the Lid Dems – after Nicol Stephen quit.
Lib Dem MSP for West Aberdeenshire Mr Rumbles, pictured, a popular figure at Holyrood, stood unsuccessfully against Mr Stephen for the position in 2005.
He said: “I have decided once again to stand for the leadership of the Scottish Liberal Democrats.
“I look forward to getting this across as I meet as many people as possible over the coming weeks.”
Shetland MSP and former Transport Minister Tavish Scott has been tipped as favourite.
Scottish Lib Dem president and Gordon MP Malcolm Bruce said: “Most people will be surprised and disappointed by Nicol’s decision, but will understand.
“I’m sure there will be more than one candidate for leader.”
Deputy leader and Lib Dem MP Michael Moore will be caretaker leader.
Aberdeen MSP Nicol Stephen made the shock announcement only days after Labour leader Wendy Alexander resigned.
He said he had stepped down to spend more time with his family.
Mr Stephen – who has four children aged between four and 12, Macleod, Mirrhyn, Mharni and Drummond – admitted he could not juggle the pressures of the job with family life.
He said that as leader he was being forced to spend too long away from his wife Caris and their family, who attend schools in Aberdeen.
Mr Stephen, who left for a Mediterranean holiday with his family today, said: “Everyone involved in politics knows there are stresses and strains on family life. But when it goes beyond that, when it crosses a line, something has to be done.
“When you have to make a choice between family and politics – there can only be one answer. The health and wellbeing of your family has got to come first.
“As an MSP representing a constituency well away from Edinburgh, I have been away from home at least four working days each week for more than nine years.
“As a party leader, the responsibilities have been even more demanding.”
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