Liberal Democrats reselect Phil Hutty to contest Torridge and West Devon at next general election

The Liberal Democrats have confirmed that Phil Hutty will once again stand as their Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Torridge and West Devon, as the party gears up for the next General Election. Mr Hutty, who was first selected in January 2023, has quickly emerged as the leading challenger to incumbent Conservative MP Sir Geoffrey Cox, slashing the Tory majority from over 25,000 to under 4,000 in recent projections.

His reselection follows a competitive internal process triggered by party rules, amid growing momentum in the constituency. Torridge and West Devon is now considered the eighth most winnable seat for the Liberal Democrats nationally, a reflection of the shifting political landscape in this traditionally Conservative stronghold.

Chris West, Chair of Torridge and West Devon Liberal Democrats, commented:

"I am delighted that Phil has been confirmed as our Prospective Parliamentary Candidate. He is already well known to voters for his tireless campaigning activity, and there is no doubt that he is the man to turn our constituency orange. Lib Dem rules required us to organise a new selection process and, with the seat now considered the eighth most winnable in the country, there were other strong candidates contending for the role. The result shows how much Phil has already achieved and how much it is appreciated by our members."

Hutty’s selection cements his role as a key figure in the party’s efforts to regain ground in rural Devon. The Torridge and West Devon constituency, created in 1983, has been held by the Conservatives since its inception. Sir Geoffrey Cox has served as MP since 2005, and was Attorney General from 2018 to 2020.

Phil Hutty, a local campaigner and former police officer, is keen to demonstrate that the Liberal Democrats are a credible alternative for disaffected voters.

"It is a privilege to stand for an area whose spirit I know and appreciate so well. With the two main parties in disarray, these are uncertain times for politics, and I know many people feel ignored or overruled by central government decisions. I will continue to listen and work with residents so that, whenever the next election comes, I will be a strong voice for the people of Torridge and Tavistock."

The Liberal Democrats have been making gains in the South West, buoyed by concerns over rural services, farming policy, water quality, and the cost of living. In the 1990s and early 2000s, the party held multiple constituencies across Devon and Cornwall, and now seeks to re-establish a strong presence in the region.

Phil Hutty will continue his campaign efforts with regular street stalls in Tavistock and by engaging with voters at this summer’s Agricultural Shows in Holsworthy and Woolsery. Residents are encouraged to meet him, raise local concerns, and learn more about the Liberal Democrats’ plans for the future of Torridge and West Devon.