Sir Vince Cable has returned to frontline politics as the newly appointed vice president of the European Movement.
The role marks the first step back into mainstream politics for the former Liberal Democrat leader and MP since stepping down from both roles in 2019.
He joins a line-up of political heavyweights that includes former Conservative Deputy Prime Minister Michael Heseltine, who is President of the European Movement, and Labour former Secretary of State Andrew Adonis, who is chair.
Sir Vince Cable said: “The European Movement dates back 75 years to Britain’s original commitment with the European Union and I am delighted to have been elected Vice President and look forward to contributing to the important work ahead.
“Brexit was a bitter blow for many of us, but the fightback is well underway.
“The European Movement is committed to exposing the failures of Brexit, holding leaders to account, and rebuilding our relationship with Europe.
“We will give political leadership to the millions who do not accept the present self-exclusion from Europe and want to campaign and negotiate for something closer and better.
“There are many ways of re-engaging with Europe but the best way to shape that debate is to become a member of the European Movement and the best time is now.”
The veteran MP, who was first elected as MP for Twickenham in 1997, received cross-party respect through his career for his warnings, predictions, and multiple campaigns on issues including the housing market crisis, which led to the 2008 economic crash.
Anna Bird, CEO of the European Movement, said: “We are thrilled and honoured to welcome Sir Vince Cable to the European Movement.
“We are certain that his experience, insight, and knowledge will bolster our already established and growing movement.
“The European Movement is a strictly cross-party organisation which already boasts some of the biggest and most respected names in British politics from all the major parties, and Sir Vince’s appointment makes this even stronger.
“We are entering a critical stage in the battle for the soul of our country and as the European Movement goes from strength to strength, we are more confident than ever that we on course to succeed.
“The European Movement is the only organisation with the grassroots power, political stamina, and unwavering courage to expose the calamity of Brexit and win the battle for the soul of our country.
The news of his appointment is accompanied by a video which encompasses key moments of the former MP’s career, and ends with him tipping his hat to his political return in front of Parliament.
