Former Lib Dem leader Campbell dies aged 84

LORD Menzies Campbell, former leader of the Liberal Democrats, has died at the age of 84.

- RHIANNON JAMES Press Association

Party leader Sir Ed Davey described Lord Campbell of Pittenweem known as Ming - as “a dedicated public servant, a tireless champion for Fife, St Andrews and the UK, and a true Liberal giant”.

Lord Campbell, who grew up in Glasgow, represented his constituency of North East Fife for almost three decades before taking his seat in the upper chamber in 2015.

He was also known for being a keen sprinter, with the former Olympic athlete holding the British 100 metres record between 1967 and 1974.

Lord Campbell died peacefully in London, with some of his final days spent watching the Liberal Democrats Party Conference, the party said.

Sir Ed paid tribute to his “incredibly warm and caring friend and colleague”. He said: “With a parliamentary career spanning five decades, Ming Campbell was a dedicated public servant, a tireless champion for Fife, St Andrews and the UK, and a true Liberal giant. He was the Liberal Democrat spokesperson on foreign affairs when the world changed on 9/11, and his principled leadership opposing the Iraq War was a mark of his morality, courage and wisdom. He spoke up for what was right, even when it was hard.