Former Conservative MP defects to Lib Dems and backs Ming

10.31.59am GMT Mon 30th Jan 2006

Sir Cyril Townsend the former Conservative MP for Bexleyheath (1974 to 1997) has defected to the Liberal Democrats. Sir Cyril has also announced that he is backing Ming for Leader..

Sir Cyril said "David Cameron was the author of Michael Howard's illiberal manifesto just last May. If he believed what he wrote then, how can he believe what he says now? And since he voted for the US invasion of Iraq, and has been continually Eurosceptic, what right has he to our respect for his international intentions?

I am supporting Ming Campbell's campaign to lead the Liberal Democrats - who I joined last year - because I admire his consistency and integrity, and I believe his distinct radical liberalism would be a breath of fresh air in British politics."