Birmingham Lib Dems reveal their new Deputy Leader

Birmingham Liberal Democrats are delighted to announce that Councillor Deborah Harries has been chosen as the group’s Deputy Leader.

She replaces Councillor Morriam Jan who has served in the position for two years. 

Speaking about her appointment, Councillor Harries said:

“This city is in a terrible state, as a consequence of the actions of the current Labour leadership, with broken finances and filthy streets, and that needs to change. 

“The Liberal Democrats are experiencing tremendous, growing support, both locally and nationally, and we hope to replicate that here in Birmingham. 

“I’m grateful for the confidence my colleagues have shown in me, to help us achieve that success over the course of the next year, as we head towards local elections in the city in May 2026.” 

Commenting on the change, Group Leader Roger Harmer said:

“I want to thank Cllr Morriam Jan for deputising for the past two years. We both came into the role in May 2023. Not a month had passed before the serious failings of the Oracle implementation were exposed, shortly followed by the Equal Pay catastrophe. 

“Councillor Jan and I steered uncharted waters together as the chaos of the Birmingham Labour administration unfolded leading to two section 114 notices and unprecedented Commissioner intervention. She remains a loyal and well-respected member of the group.”

“Nonetheless I’m delighted to welcome Deborah as the new Deputy, and I look forward to working with her as we head towards the 2026 local elections. Big changes are coming to Birmingham and Deborah’s experience in strategy, management and communications will be invaluable.”