KEETCH & CARR COMMENT ON LEADER'S RESIGNATION

8.00.00pm GMT Mon 15th Oct 2007

Sir Menzies Campbell QC MP

Sir Menzies Campbell QC MP, today resigned his leadership of the Liberal Democrats. Commenting on the resignation, Paul Keetch, Lib Dem MP for Hereford said:

"It is very sad news that Ming has announced his resignation with immediate effect. However, knowing Ming he has put our Party first and not his personal ambition and I admire him for arriving at his decision in this characteristic way.

"He is a true statesman and I hold him in high regard having worked closely with him on defence and foreign affairs and of course whilst he has been our Leader.

"Liberal Democrats will now move on and elect a Leader, from what I am sure will be a remarkable field of candidates, who will look forward to the challenges that lie ahead."

Sarah Carr, the Liberal Democrat Parliamentary Candidate for the constituency of Hereford & South Herefordshire commented:

"Sir Ming Campbell is a man of great integrity and experience with a forensic mind and quick wit. Throughout his political life Ming has unswervingly campaigned for liberal values and social justice. I respect and admire Ming Campbell.

There are some very impressive potential candidates for Leader of the Liberal Democrat Party and I look forward to the contest ahead."