Sir Ed Davey, leader of the Liberal Democrats, has proposed a new written constitution for Britain, describing it as a 'new Magna Carta' to protect fundamental rights and commitments from being dismantled by populist leaders. Speaking at the party's spring conference in York, he argued that the current political climate demands a renewed national commitment enshrined in law.
The Lib Dem leader outlined key principles for the proposed constitution, including the rule of law, independent courts, universal human rights, trial by jury, a free press, freedom of expression, and the commitment to universal healthcare free at the point of use. He also reiterated the party's support for proportional representation to give everyone equal power and voice.
Sir Ed criticised Labour's plans to limit jury trials to more serious offences and took aim at Reform UK and its leader Nigel Farage, warning against 'authoritarian creeps like Donald Trump'. He emphasised that the new settlement should make Britain resistant to such influences.
In addition to constitutional reform, Sir Ed called for Britain to decouple its nuclear deterrent from reliance on American maintenance, arguing that Trident missiles are not truly independent due to US dependency. He stated that President Trump has proven the US is no longer a dependable ally, referencing Trump's actions in the Middle East and his threats to halt trade with Spain.
