Danny Alexander pips Vince Cable to Lib Dem campaign role of economic spokesman
Decision indicates party leadership more comfortable with Tories after poll than Labour
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Danny Alexander has won a battle with Vince Cable to act as the Liberal Democrats’ main economic spokesman at the general election.
Nick Clegg’s decision will be interpreted as evidence that the party leadership could feel more comfortable continuing in coalition with the Tories after the election than forging a power-sharing deal with Labour.
As Chief Secretary to the Treasury, Mr Alexander has worked closely with Chancellor George Osborne, while Mr Cable, who is the Business Secretary, has made little secret of his Labour-leaning instincts.
A party spokesman said: “We are enormously fortunate to have two talented and well-known ministers on economic matters that are recognised and respected by the public. By the next election Danny Alexander and Vince Cable will have both served for five years … so they know their areas inside out. It therefore makes complete sense they should continue in those roles during the election.”
The spokesman also ruled out any reshuffle of Lib Dem ministers ahead of the election. His comments follow speculation that Alistair Carmichael could be replaced as Scottish Secretary by Jo Swinson.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments