The longtime leader of Portsmouth City Council and the Lib Dem group leader has announced he is stepping down.
"Last week saw a hugely successful set council elections in Portsmouth and it was a huge vote of confidence in the way the Lib Dems have been running the city.
My thanks to you for all the support you have given the councillors and the campaign team. Without it, we could not succeed.
But I have now decided to stand down - as Leader of the Lib Dems in Portsmouth and as Leader of the Council.I've been Leader of the Council for 15 years, and Leader of the Lib Dems for 19 years.
Its been a huge privilege and I'm pleased to hand over to Steve Pitt and to Suzy Horton as the new Leadership Team. They lead a strong team and they have my support.
My thanks for your support." - Gerald Vernon-Jackson
Everyone at Portsmouth Liberal Democrats send their thanks and gratitude to Gerald who has worked tirelessly on behalf of all residents of Portsmouth.
The new, larger Lib Dem council group lead by Steve Pitt and Suzy Horton have got straight to work following a successful set of elections. Cllr Steve Pitt was unanimously elected leader of Portsmouth City Council with all parties and independents support
