The leader of Richmond Council's Liberal Democrat opposition group Stephen Knight has stood down with a swipe at the "disaster" of the era of Nick Clegg and so-called Orange Book MPs.

The Orange Book was a pamphlet written in the 2004 by authors including Vince Cable, Nick Clegg, Ed Davey, Chris Huhne, Susan Kramer and co-edited by David Laws.

The term has become associated in Lib Dem internal politics with economic liberals who promote choice and competition in public services and business.

In a statement Mr Knight, who is also a London Assembly member, said: "I decided some months ago that I would not seek re-election as group leader at our group AGM on 18th May.

"My main focus now needs to be on my role as a London assembly member, especially with the GLA elections next year.

“I am very proud of what the group has achieved since 2010 and the way we have stood up for our progressive values locally. 

"The general election result shows that our local achievement in holding around two thirds of our council seats last year was one we should be proud of and shows that the electorate appreciates all the work we do for them and the way in which we have stood up for them on a number of issues.

“The party nationally now clearly needs a break from the Clegg/Orange Book era that has proved such a disaster and to reassert its progressive social democratic and liberal identity that was enshrined when the party was formed in 1988 from the merger of the SDP and Liberal Party.

“I want to thank all of you for your support during the last five years, a time that has been so difficult for all of us."