The United Kingdom is mourning Lord Menzies Campbell. He died peacefully at age 84. His passing followed a period of respite care in London. Significantly, his grandson was by his side. Campbell was widely known by his nickname, “Ming.” He enjoyed a long and distinguished political career. This career spanned nearly three decades as a Member of Parliament.
Campbell led the Liberal Democrats from 2006 to 2007. Furthermore, he represented North East Fife in Westminster for 28 years. Before politics, he was a celebrated athlete. He even competed in the 1964 Tokyo Olympics. Consequently, people called him “The Flying Scotsman.” He also held the UK 100m record for seven years.
Current Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey paid a warm tribute. He described Campbell as a “true Liberal giant.” Davey highlighted Campbell’s principled opposition to the Iraq War. Moreover, he emphasized Campbell’s warmth and care as a friend. The party will miss him terribly, Davey concluded.
Campbell’s family shared touching details about his final days. Interestingly, he watched the Liberal Democrat conference. He also enjoyed video messages from political friends. His wife of over fifty years, Elspeth, died just last year. Her passing was very difficult for him.
Campbell first entered politics as a Liberal Party candidate in 1974. However, he did not win a seat until 1987. He quickly made his mark as a foreign affairs spokesman. He held this role for an impressive fourteen years. His distinguished political career was defined by moral courage. For instance, he was a renowned critic of the Iraq war.
Scotland’s First Minister, John Swinney, also expressed his condolences. He called Campbell one of Scotland’s most well-liked figures. Swinney said Campbell was a passionate believer in a better Scotland. He was also a strong internationalist. Furthermore, Swinney praised his respectful and courteous style.
Many colleagues remembered his mentorship and friendship. Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Alex Cole-Hamilton was one of them. He said Campbell was his MP, mentor, and friend. Cole-Hamilton added that Campbell’s public life contributions will be long remembered.
Former leader Sir Nick Clegg succeeded Campbell. Clegg recalled his great expertise in foreign affairs. He also shared a poignant personal memory. Clegg visited Campbell recently in a nursing home. There, Campbell spoke with unlimited devotion about his late wife, Elspeth.
Campbell’s distinguished political career continued until recently. He became a member of the House of Lords in 2015. Until recently, he still traveled to London to contribute. His life was one of remarkable service, from the Olympic track to the benches of Westminster. He will be remembered as a principled and respected statesman.
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