By politics.co.uk staff

Business secretary Vince Cable has stood down as deputy leader of the Liberal Democrats, paving the way for a contentious election over his successor.

Dr Cable is widely thought to have been less comfortable with working in government with the Conservatives than leader Nick Clegg, who is now installed in the Cabinet Office as deputy prime minister.

He said he had taken on “new challenges and responsibilities” by joining the government and wanted to focus on “the job in hand”.

“These are exciting times to be a Liberal Democrat, and despite all the challenges we face we have a real opportunity to change Britain for the better,” he wrote in an open letter to Mr Clegg.

“There are great opportunities for the party alongside our working in coalition.”

Former party president Simon Hughes is the likeliest candidate to take the role in the coming election, which could provide a focus for left-leaning Lib Dem MPs who are uncomfortable with the coalition.

He was one of the most senior Lib Dems who did not receive a job in the government.

Mr Clegg commented: “Vince has been a fantastic deputy leader during an exciting time for the party. I look forward to us continuing to work together in government.”