Chuka Umunna joins Lib Dems after split from Change UK

Former Labour MP Chuka Umunna has joined the Liberal Democrats following his split from Change UK.

The Streatham MP said his latest party "offer the best chance to improve the lives of those I represent as well as countless other citizens across our country".

He made the move following talks with outgoing Lib Dem leader Vince Cable, who said the party's new MP "will be a great asset to our party not just on Brexit, but in fighting for the liberal and social democratic values".

But Labour chairman Ian Lavery called on Umunna to call a by-election in the seat he won for Labour in 2017 with a majority of 26,285.

He tweeted: “Three parties in as many months....who’s next ? Put your immense popularity to the good people of Streatham...let’s have a PV (people's vote) on you and your principles. #letsgoforit #byelectionnow."

In a statement, Umunna - who was first elected a Labour MP in 2010 and briefly stood for the party's leadership in 2015, said: "I have chosen to join the Liberal Democrats because it is at the forefront of a renewed, progressive and internationalist movement in British politics that shares my values.  

"Labour and the Tories are committed to facilitating Brexit, and Brexit makes ending austerity virtually impossible. The Liberal Democrats are not – they were arguing for a People’s Vote and to remain in the EU from the very start.

"I am convinced the Liberal Democrats, as the spearhead of a broader progressive movement in civil society, offer the best chance to improve the lives of those I represent as well as countless other citizens across our country.”

Sir Vince Cable said: "Chuka and I have worked together effectively for many months, campaigning for a People’s Vote and to Stop Brexit.

 "I know that he will be a great asset to our party not just on Brexit, but in fighting for the liberal and social democratic values that we share.

"He joins alongside 20,000 people across the country just this month, demonstrating clearly that the Liberal Democrats are the biggest, clearest and most formidable force in the liberal centre-ground of British politics today."

Umunna told The Times he would not be taking sides in the upcoming Lib Dem leadership contest between Jo Swinson and Ed Davey, and would never seek the top job himself.

Swinson said: "I have said all along that growing a liberal movement means reaching out to bring more people into our party, and I am delighted that Chuka has decided to join the Liberal Democrats.

"I have worked with Chuka on the People's Vote campaign, and I know the passion, intellect, and energy he will bring to our party, and our campaign to stop Brexit."