Whilst the Conservative party horrify the world with their very public shambles of a leadership contest, LibDems brought us their quieter and better quality version at their leadership hustings on last Friday night, 21st June.
The two contestants are Ed Davey and Jo Swinson, introduced by Lord Teverson, and they were speaking to a packed room at the Duke of Cornwall Hotel. Nearly 250 members from around the South West attended.

We want to say thank you to everyone who has helped over the course of the EU election campaign, as well as to everyone who has supported us and voted for us (in both the Local and EU elections).

In the EU election, the Lib Dems came second nationally, with over 20% of the vote. That makes us the leading party of remain. Plymouth tends to be a tough area for us as a party, but we have made gains here over the last couple of years. Impressively, we also came second in Plymouth, gaining 14% of the vote. This shows that our efforts, both locally and nationally, are succeeding. Our clear position on wanting to remain a member of the EU, combined with our reputation for progressive policies, in areas such as the environment and mental health, are clearly resonating with the public.

The Liberal Democrats passionately believe that the UK will have a brighter and better future if we remain a member of the EU. At a time when nationalism and populism are on the rise, it is vital that we continue to fight for a liberal, outward looking, inclusive society. We have been campaigning hard in Plymouth, across the South West, and throughout the rest of the UK, in the run up to the EU Election. We will continue to stand up for the values that others wish to erode.

Join the winning team

Following our record-breaking victories in the recent council elections, and our clear EU election polling as the leading party of remain, we would love you to join us. Alternatively, you could become a supporter and help out with the forthcoming European Elections and beyond. The EU elections have never been more important than they are right now.

Plymouth Lib Dems are campaigning in the South West with a clear Stop Brexit message for the EU elections. Today a group of us helped in Totnes, canvassing and running a street stall with leading candidate Caroline Voaden. We have lots more planned in Plymouth and beyond, with members out canvassing and leafleting. We had a great response from residents and members of the public. The fact that we are polling so well, proves that we are the leading remain party. It is clear that the Lib Dems represent the best choice for voters who would like to remain a member of the EU.

Our campaigning for the EU elections is well underway, with a clear remain message. We have a great shortlist of candidates in the South West and Gibraltar constituency, with Caroline Voaden number 1 on the list. Caroline has previously stood as Parliamentary candidate in SW Devon.

In Plymouth, we are out canvassing and delivering leaflets. We are also helping the wider region with activity in areas such as South Hams and Totnes.

With the 2019 Council Elections over, I want to thank all members, supporters and those electors who voted Liberal Democrat. A particularly special message of thanks is due to all those who helped to deliver the Liberal Democrat message in Plymstock and Compton.

Finally, thanks to all our candidates, some of whom have achieved very encouraging results.

Our team of local members have been out campaigning over the last few weeks; dressed for all four seasons and spreading the liberal message. Our local policies include stopping tree loss, action on polluting vehicle emissions, helping the homeless, central government funding of the Tamar Bridge, and (of course) continuing our fight for a people's vote on the final Brexit deal.

Plymstock Dunstone - Sima Davarian

I'm a Plymothian to my core, having been born in Freedom Fields Hospital. I'm really proud of my diverse family background, with my maternal roots being traceable to Ireland and Germany, and my father having emigrated here from Iran several decades ago.

My childhood was based in Plymstock and I attended local primary and secondary schools before reading English Literature at Cardiff University. I have been fortunate enough to travel in some wonderful countries but Plymouth has always had my heart.