Sir Menzies says "I know real liberals, Mr Cameron, and let me tell you - you are no liberal"

10.20.04am GMT Thu 9th Feb 2006

Sir Menzies Campbell speaking at the House of Commons

Yesterday, David Cameron invited local Lib Dems in Dunfermline to join his party. Let me explain why this invitation is laughable, and will not be taken seriously here in Scotland or anywhere else in the country by Lib Dem members.

Mr Cameron has made clear his admiration for Mr Blair - sometimes it seems as though the feeling may be mutual. Mr Cameron wishes to be seen as a liberal. Mr Blair wished to be seen as a liberal in his early years. But being a liberal is not about what you say, but what you do. Mr Blair no longer even pretends to be a liberal.

I know real liberals, Mr Cameron, and let me tell you - you are no liberal.

In his first few weeks, Mr Cameron has shown in his actions precisely which aspects of Mr Blair's leadership he wishes most to emulate.

Insubstantial policy statements, empty pledges, the obsession with media spin. These are the aspects of Blairism that Mr Cameron has been fastest to adopt - just when they are going out of fashion.

Why have they gone out of fashion? Because people today want their politicians to be honest about their beliefs, to make promises they can keep, and to stand up for Britain's fundamental liberal values, not to sell them down the river for short term political advantage.

David Cameron's flip-flops on policy expose his inexperience. He's still a novice. A leader with L-Plates.

So while Conservatives may think that youth, inexperience, and naivete are the answer to their problems; I say they are not the answer to the country's problems.

Tomorrow's Britain needs leaders of experience, proven good judgement, who people know they can trust. That's my territory Mr Cameron, not yours. And I can't wait for the chance to put that choice to the British people.