Lord Menzies Campbell, former Liberal Democrat leader and Olympic sprinter, has died peacefully at the age of 84, the party has confirmed.
Lord Menzies Campbell Dies Aged 84
He passed away at the Kyn Hurlingham care facility in London, where he had been receiving respite care. In a touching note from his family, it was revealed that he spent one of his final days watching the Liberal Democrat party conference, his political home to the end.
“Ming achieved a lot through his life, across sport, law and politics. But the myriad of accolades and awards he collected in his professional life paled in comparison to his achievements as a husband, father figure, grandfather, and friend,” said his grandson, Gregor Grant-Suttie.
A Life of Service, From the Track to the House of Commons
Campbell’s remarkable journey began long before his political career. A former Olympian, he held the British 100m sprint record from 1967 to 1974, a record that underlined his discipline and drive. But it was in Westminster where he truly left his mark.
Elected in 1987 as MP for North East Fife, Campbell would represent the constituency with dignity and commitment for nearly three decades, retiring in 2015.
Key Moments in His Political Journey:
- 1987: Elected MP for North East Fife
- 1992–2006: Foreign Affairs spokesperson for the Liberal Democrats
- 2003: Vocal opponent of the Iraq War
- 2006–2007: Leader of the Liberal Democrats
A Principled Voice on the World Stage
Known affectionately as “Ming”, Lord Campbell was never afraid to stand firm on difficult issues. A vocal critic of the Iraq War, his leadership during a volatile period in world affairs demonstrated clarity, conviction and a moral compass rarely seen.
Sir Ed Davey, current Lib Dem leader, paid tribute to him, calling him: “A dedicated public servant, a tireless champion for Fife, St Andrews and the UK, and a true Liberal giant.”
Davey also praised Campbell’s leadership during the post-9/11 era, describing his opposition to the Iraq War as a powerful example of political integrity.
Campbell’s impact wasn’t confined to politics. He brought the discipline of sport, the logic of law, and the empathy of leadership to every role he embraced.
“He was a rare breed of Scotsman whose contribution and ideas spanned so much further than his home country’s borders. His level of thinking around issues that were international, particularly around defence, gave Scotland the ability to be extremely proud of one of their own,” said Grant-Suttie
In a world of fleeting political careers, Campbell’s longevity and influence were profound.
From Olympic sprinting to shaping UK foreign policy, Lord Menzies Campbell was more than a politician; he was a force of principle. His legacy stands not only in Parliament, but in the people and causes he championed for decades.
Warm Tributes From Friends and Colleagues
Former Lib Dem leader Nick Clegg, who succeeded Campbell, shared heartfelt memories: “He was unfailingly generous with his time and advice, even when he disagreed with me, he did so with his trademark courtesy and wit. I will miss him greatly.”
Clegg fondly recalled their last meeting earlier this month. Though physically frail, Campbell was still full of political insight and affectionately reminisced about his beloved wife, Elspeth.
“Ming was a liberal, a Scottish liberal to his core.”
Beyond the Podium and the Commons
Campbell wasn’t just admired for his public roles. Behind the scenes, he was known as a deeply warm and compassionate friend.
“Ming was always great company, whether talking about sport with the authority of a captain of Britain’s athletics team and a British 100m record-holder, or asking about you and your family. He would always pass on kind thoughts from his wife, Elspeth, his rock,” said Sir Ed.
His sense of humour, generosity, and warmth touched all who knew him inside and outside of politics.
A Lasting Legacy
As tributes continue to pour in from across the political spectrum, one thing is clear: Lord Menzies Campbell’s influence went far beyond party lines. His voice was one of reason, compassion, and unshakable integrity.
He leaves behind a legacy of leadership grounded in conviction—an enduring example of what public service should look like.
Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and all those in the Liberal Democrat family who mourn the passing of a true political statesman.
