Chuka’s new party Change UK has split Remain votes, warns Cable

Sir Vince Cable today hit out at Chuka Umunna’s new Change UK party for creating a “damaging” split among Remain voters in the European Parliament elections.

Writing in the Evening Standard, the Liberal Democrat leader revealed that he had urged them to form a “united front” against Brexit at the May 23 elections — but was rebuffed.

He said Change UK had thrown away a chance for up to 16 MEPs to be elected if the Remain parties had pooled their strength.

“The reality not yet understood by some newer players on the field is that fighting elections is not just about media coverage and political parties are not just about MPs,” said the former Cabinet minister.

Sir Vince highlighted an FT analysis that suggested a Remain alliance would have won 16 seats, but that by fighting separate campaigns the Lib Dems would win seven and Change UK none.

“While my own tribe might be happy to vanquish the other tanks on our lawn, nobody is so tribal that they believe seven to be a larger number than 16,” he said, adding that “failure to co-operate in first-past-the-post general elections could be even more damaging”.

Sir Vince spoke out after a leaked memo revealed Change UK was plotting to wipe out the Lib Dems and replace them at the next general election, due in 2022.

The memo disclosed plans “to win over LD activists and members”, target key donors and hijack Lib Dem issues such as mental health and civil liberties.

At their launch rally three days ago, Mr Umunna and acting Change UK leader Heidi Allen both claimed their party had become the “Remain Alliance” in the election.

Sir Vince revealed that the two parties have since agreed a “non-aggression pact” to discourage “friendly fire”.

Lawyer Irina von Wiese, the Lib Dems’ number one ranked candidate for London, also criticised Change UK for its lack of co-operation. She said: “It is very regrettable that they have chosen this path. We do share so many goals.”