NAOMI SMITH STEPS DOWN FROM SOCIAL LIBERAL FORUM - NEW INTERIM CHAIR APPOINTED

Naomi Smith steps down from Social Liberal Forum - New Interim Chair appointed

Naomi Smith is stepping down as Chair of the Social Liberal Forum as she is starting a new role that requires political neutrality.

At its Council Meeting on Saturday 9th January 2016, the SLF Council decided unanimously to appoint current Director, Gordon Lishman, as interim Chair, effective immediately, until the next set of SLF council elections take place in the Summer. 

Commenting, interim Chair, Gordon Lishman said, "Naomi has been a leading member of the Social Liberal Forum since it was founded in 2009. She has consistently been a key campaigner and strong voice for Social Liberalism in the UK.  For many social liberals, Naomi and her colleagues have given good reason to stay in the Party throughout the challenges of coalition; she and they deserve thanks from the whole Party for their crucial contribution”.

Naomi Smith said “It has been an immense privilege to serve social liberals for the past six years. In that time the Forum has evolved from a small group of like-minded people, to an organisation with over 2,000 supporters, has a member of staff, runs a sell-out annual conference, and which has played a significant role in shaping government policy on pensions and the NHS. 

“I am incredibly grateful to James Graham and David Hall-Matthews for their vision in establishing the SLF, and so too the many volunteers, donors and members who continue to support the Forum in its crucial role in promoting Social Liberalism both within the Liberal Democrats and more widely in UK politics”.