OXFORD West and Abingdon MP Layla Moran has confirmed she rejected overtures to stand as Lib Dem leader earlier this year.

Elected in June, Ms Moran said she had been encouraged to contest the leadership after Tim Farron resigned but left Sir Vince Cable to be elected unopposed in July.

She said: “During the leadership contest I was approached by a number of people to stand as leader. I was very clear. My priority is to be the best possible MP for Oxford West and Abingdon. I was very flattered of course. But I’ve only just been elected! Talk about this is extremely premature.”