David Shutt, Liberal Democrat Chief Whip in the House of Lords, announced last week that after 7 years of service he is standing down from the front bench. David entered the House of Lords in 2000, bringing with him not only the expertise and experience as a chartered accountant, but as a lifelong activist and campaigner for the liberal cause. As well as contesting 6 general elections, David also served as a councilor in Calderdale in his native West Yorkshire.

The Lib Dem leader in the Lords, Tom McNally said,

David has been a great friend to me personally, but a huge friend to liberalism and for the cause we all believe in. The party owes him a debt of gratitude, and I have no doubt that David will continue to make a significant contribution to its future fortunes.

Nick Clegg MP said,

On behalf of the party I would like to wish David and his family well, and to thank him sincerely for his long service and all the hard work he has offered not only to the party in the Lords, but to the country as a government minister. I hope David will look back on his successes and achievements with a great deal of pride.

Lord Shutt will be succeeded as Chief Whip by Lord Newby (Dick Newby).