The Independent also backs Sir Menzies

11.02.49am GMT Tue 7th Feb 2006

Sir Menzies Campbell campaigning in Birmingham during the General Election

The Independent also today comes out in favour of Sir Menzies and says 'Sir Menzies is the best candidate'. Below is an extract, I cannot get the full version as I have not subscribed to their website:

The party needs a leader with authority, a leader who will command respect both among MPs and in the country. It needs a leader who will be capable of unifying the party after this period of disintegration, and a leader far-sighted enough to forge the sort of policies that will attract new voters at the next election…

Sir Menzies brings undoubted authority to the role. He has the overwhelming support of MPs and peers, and enjoys respect in the country. He is the one candidate who should be capable of uniting the party's left and right wings…

As things stand, Sir Menzies is the only candidate with the authority to lead the Liberal Democrats at this difficult time. With the two main parties rapidly converging on the middle ground, British politics urgently needs a strong - and truly liberal - voice…