Huhne pays tribute to Ming Campbell

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Tue 16th Oct 2007

Huhne pays tribute to Ming Campbell

Eastleigh MP Chris Huhne said that Ming Campbell left the Liberal Democrats in a stronger position professionally and organisationally than when he took over, and had led the party from the front on a number of key policy issues such as tax, post office reform and defence.

"Ming had real courage as a leader in tackling difficult issues even when they were unpopular with some in the party, and he deserves real credit for that. He set the agenda by pushing for a real attack on climate change including the green tax switch, for setting a date for the withdrawal of troops from Iraq, and for a freedom bill to roll back the incursions of this government into our traditional civil liberties.

"On a personal note, I am grateful for the support that Ming gave to me in pushing through the most radical and comprehensive plans to tackle carbon emissions put forward by any British political party. The Liberal Democrats can hold their head high having championed policies that will make Britain more free, fair and green."