Surrey now has a Lib Dem MP

Surrey now has a Lib Dem MP, as Sam Gyimah, former Conservative MP for East Surrey joined the party on the first day of the Party Conference.

Sam Gyimah feels the two old parties have moved to the edges of the political spectrum - each with their own brand of intolerance and division - leaving millions political homeless. Whereas, Jo Swinson and the Lib Dems are a real movement that can unite the centre, bringing together liberal-minded people to offer a real alternative.

Lib Dem MP for East Surrey, Sam Gyimah, said:

"The Conservative Party no longer has a place for people like me. At this critical time for our country, I still want to contribute to public life. And as I have worked across parties these last few months for a Brexit resolution, it has become clear that the Liberal Democrats under Jo Swinson's determined leadership are best placed to forge a new liberal movement on the big issues of our time."

"That is why I am crossing the floor and joining the Liberal Democrats. And I know that if everyone who also wants a real alternative gets behind us, their votes will count and we will change our country for the better. I don't underestimate the challenge ahead, through Brexit and beyond. But I relish it."