Liberal Democrat membership has halved in 5 years

"The number of Liberal Democrat party members has almost halved in the last five years, according to BBC analysis of available figures. The figure has fallen from just under 118,000 in 2020, when Sir Ed Davey became leader, to 60,000. That is despite the Lib Dems having their most successful general election ever last year in terms of seats won."

"The drop in paid-up members since then has been masked by the inclusion of "registered supporters" in figures published in the party's annual accounts each year since 2017. Registered supporters sign up for free to get access to briefings and events, but they cannot decide policy or vote in leadership elections. The party clearly states the figure published in the annual accounts relates to both member and supporters. However, it does not provide a breakdown."

"He said the drop in membership was surprising given the Lib Dems' electoral success, which would suggest "a party on the up, in which case you might get more ambitious people wanting to join it". But he added: "There's an extent to which surges into parties are prompted by public profile... and they don't seem to have much chance of getting into government at the moment.""

Liberal Democrat paid membership has nearly halved over five years, falling from just under 118,000 in 2020 to 60,000, while the party achieved its strongest seat performance in the most recent general election. Published membership figures combine paid members and free "registered supporters" without providing a breakdown. Registered supporters receive briefings and event access but cannot vote on policy or leadership. The Green Party reports around 90,000 members, up 91% since 2020. Academic analysis finds the membership drop surprising given electoral success, notes surges often reflect public profile rather than governing prospects, and records high Lib Dem membership activity.

Read at www.bbc.com