However, when Lloyd George became Prime Minister in December 1916, Wood was not offered a post in the government. By the time the general election of December 1918 was held, Wood was an anti-coalition Asquith Liberal. In common with most of the Liberals who did not receive the "Coalition Coupon" he lost his seat, which was gained by Gideon Oliphant-Murray of the Conservative Party. He made one attempt to re-enter the Commons when he stood unsuccessfully for Hackney Central in 1922.