Lib Dem Leadership handover at Oxfordshire County Council

Councillor Liz Leffman has announced her intention to step down as leader of the Liberal Democrat group on the county council, and as leader of Oxfordshire County Council.

The new leader for the council’s Liberal Democrat group is Councillor Tim Bearder. 

There will be an extraordinary general meeting of the council on a date to be set to elect a new leader. In the interim, the current Deputy Leader of Oxfordshire County Council, Cllr Neil Fawcett, will lead the authority.

Cllr Liz Leffman said: “It has been a huge privilege to serve as leader of the county council since 2021. I have very much enjoyed the role and the connections that I have been able to make with people all over the county, in all walks of life.

“However, now is the time for me to stand down. In May 2027, we will be having elections for the new unitary council or councils, and as I will not be standing for election, it is right that I hand over the leadership in the run-up to these elections. I do intend to remain as a member of cabinet.

“I know that while welcoming new members the cabinet will continue to steer Oxfordshire through local government reorganisation, devolution and the financial challenges that are facing many councils.

“We will also want to re-dedicate ourselves to our priorities based around climate action and sustainable economic growth.”