Good evening all,

Following the Liberal Democrats' record result, in which we demonstrated the strong appetite in this nation for strong and sensible centrist leadership, the Liberal Democrat membership were asked to participate in the election of a new Deputy Leader for our party. Now that this process has concluded, I can announce that the Liberal Democrats have elected me as their Deputy Leader. I thank the Liberal Democrats for granting me this incredible opportunity, and I thank u/theverywetbanana for his spirited and informative candidacy which has already enriched the party in the short time this election has taken place. Due congratulations must be given to my friend u/ARichTeaBiscuit as well, who despite our differencing visions for this nation has earnt the trust of this nation to continue as Prime Minister.

The people of the United Kingdom made their voice clear at the election, the traditional duopoly of politics was rejected, and the Liberal Democrats have been entrusted with the duty of keeping this government to account. It is easy for leaders to lose sight of the mandate that they are handed following surprise results, and I wish to assure the people of the United Kingdom that we will not lose sight of this task. The United Kingdom needs to stand with our international allies, not walk alone. The United Kingdom needs a bold economic plan to boost growth and investment, instead of driving away businesses. The United Kingdom needs a government that is ready to listen to local voices and mandates, where prior governments chose partisanship and pork barreling.

Any good idea should be considered regardless of party origin, and in this spirit I wish to offer a hand of friendship to those across all sides of Westminster. For those wishing to put forward pragmatic, sensible and moderate policy that benefits our whole nation, we in the Liberal Democrats will work with you to see this achieved. I hope to see this parliament as a constructive one, where regardless of differences we may face the challenges that this nation has looming over it. The Liberal Democrats will speak further on our plans for this term once the Cabinet and Shadow Cabinets have been formally announced, thank you all for your time.