Campbell: ‘I have nothing to regret’
Menzies Campbell has described the forces which moved him to hand in his resignation as leader of the Liberal Democrats last night.
In an interview with the BBC, Mr Campbell insisted the decision had been entirely his own, claiming he had faced criticism for not consulting widely enough among party members before releasing his final letter last night.
Sir Menzies said he had even left it up until the last minute to inform his wife.
Being careful not to aggravate speculation that his hand was forced, Mr Campbell did admit that he was “irritated and frustrated by the inconsequential trivia that surrounds leadership” and by the fact he would not be able to see through an election campaign.
With his abilities routinely questioned of the grounds of age, Mr Campbell alleged the media had become “obsessed” with the issue, until it manifested as a story in itself.
He identified the “consecutive sets of reports” about his age and leadership in recent weeks, as motivation for his decision.
In addition to this, it appears Gordon Brown’s decision to postpone the general election until 2009 was critical.
This dramatic shift in the political landscape forced Sir Menzies to admit the party would not be able to “set the agenda” if he remained as leader.
Following this, he claimed to realise that his leadership was not sustainable and stepping down would be “in the best interest of the party.”
He stressed he had felt no sense that party members were moving against him.
Asked if he would be staying in politics, Sir Menzies said he intended to run again as an MP for North East Fife, if his constituency association would continue to adopt him.
He spoke of finishing his memoirs, and hinted he would disclose his full reflections on his resignation and other events during his political career, within the dustcover of this book.
Evoking John Major’s famous last words as prime minister, Mr Campbell said he had nothing to regret and added: “When it’s time to leave the stage, leave the stage.
“It won’t be a question of looking for things to do. It will be a question of finding time to do all the things I want to.”
Acting leader Vince Cable has spoken on the events of the last 24 hours, insisting the party will “bounce back”.
He stressed: “We’ve got a very good clear set of policies which we developed under Ming’s leadership . . . and we’re a very strong party. Don’t underestimate us.”
Home affairs minister, Nick Clegg – widely considered the front-runner to succeed Mr Campbell as leader – has refused to confirm or deny the rumours, saying it’s “a big decision”.
Chris Huhne is also expected to throw his hat into the ring.
Today, the environment spokesman said he would be consulting friends and fellow party members, and making a statement in the coming days.
Mr Huhne stood for election as leader following the resignation of Charles Kennedy in 2006, but came second place to Sir Menzies.
