Menzies Campbell: A Tribute to a Dedicated Public Servant and Liberal Giant
The Liberal Democrat party and the wider world of politics have lost a true giant with the passing of Sir Menzies Campbell, affectionately known as Ming. The former party leader, MP, and Olympic athlete left an indelible mark on British politics, and his legacy will be remembered for generations to come.
A Life of Public Service
Born in 1941, Campbell’s life was dedicated to public service. He studied at Glasgow and Stanford universities, becoming a barrister before entering politics. His athletic prowess was evident from an early age, competing for Britain at the 1964 Olympics and holding the UK record for 100m with a time of 10.2 seconds, a mark that stood until 1974.
Campbell’s entry into politics saw him become the MP for North East Fife in 1987, a seat he held for nearly three decades. He became party leader in 2006, succeeding Charles Kennedy, and led the Liberal Democrats for 18 months. During his tenure, Campbell faced challenges, including speculation about a leadership challenge when Gordon Brown appeared poised to call an election in 2007. Ultimately, Campbell resigned, citing questions about leadership that were hindering the party’s progress.
A Principled Leader
Despite the challenges he faced as leader, Campbell’s commitment to principle and morality shone through in his opposition to the Iraq war. As the Liberal Democrat spokesperson on foreign affairs, he demonstrated courage and wisdom in speaking out against the war, even when it was unpopular. His stance on this issue showcased his dedication to standing up for what he believed in, a trait that earned him respect from colleagues and opponents alike.
Tributes from Colleagues
Ed Davey, the current Liberal Democrat leader, paid tribute to Campbell’s dedication and warmth. “He was a dedicated public servant, a tireless champion for Fife, St Andrews, and the UK, and a true Liberal giant,” Davey said. “Ming was always great company – whether talking about sport with the authority of a captain of Britain’s athletics team and a British 100m record holder, or asking about you and your family, when he would always pass on kind thoughts from his wife, Elspeth, his rock.”
John Swinney, the Scottish First Minister, also paid tribute to Campbell, describing him as “one of the most distinguished and well-liked political figures of his generation.” Swinney highlighted Campbell’s passion for building consensus and finding common ground, traits that made him a respected figure in politics.
A Lasting Legacy
Campbell’s legacy extends beyond his political career. His athletic achievements and experiences provide a fascinating insight into his life. Who would have thought that the same man who competed against OJ Simpson and Tommie Smith would go on to lead a major political party? Campbell’s stories about his racing days, including beating Simpson and finishing second to Smith, showcase his humility and humor.
After losing his seat in the 2015 election, Campbell became a peer, remaining close to Liberal Democrat politics and a regular presence at party events. His wife, Elspeth, whom he was married to for over 50 years, passed away in 2023. She was the daughter of Maj Gen Roy Urquhart, who led airborne forces in the Battle of Arnhem in 1944.
Conclusion
Sir Menzies Campbell’s passing leaves a void in British politics. His dedication, principle, and warmth earned him respect from colleagues and opponents alike. As a true Liberal giant, Campbell’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations of politicians and public servants. His story serves as a reminder of the importance of standing up for what you believe in, even in the face of adversity, and of the value of kindness, respect, and courtesy in public life
