Simon Jenkins argues the Liberal Democrats risk losing political relevance unless they make localism a central part of their offer. He frames localism as the form of deeper local democracy the public is calling for, and presents Ed Davey’s party as the obvious vehicle to promote it.
The argument situates localism against a broader backdrop of single-issue politics. Jenkins suggests the Lib Dems can occupy a distinct position by campaigning for stronger local decision-making, devolved power and more direct citizen influence over municipal affairs. As he sees it, that is a policy space currently underexploited and one that speaks to a public appetite for change.
For the party, the prescription is strategic as well as ideological. Jenkins sets localism out as a way for the Liberal Democrats to differentiate themselves from competitors who mobilise voters around single issues or national grievances. By foregrounding how communities make choices about services, planning and budgets, the party could claim a clearer identity and practical policy terrain.
The piece places responsibility squarely on Ed Davey’s leadership to translate the argument into concrete priorities. Jenkins presents the party as 'the obvious candidates' to push the case, implying that an internal decision is required on whether to elevate localism in manifestos, campaigning and policy work.
Whether the Liberal Democrats accept that route remains an open question. Jenkins’s case frames localism as both a policy response to public demand and a tactical manoeuvre to arrest potential marginalisation. The next steps lie with party strategists and activists, who must decide if deeper local democracy will become a defining theme or remain a commentary point in the wider debate about the party’s purpose.
