Mings’ off too

So, farewell then Ming Campbell. After constant speculation since becoming Lib Dem leader (just 19 months ago) regarding his age and its impact on his ability to carry out the job he has chosen to walk away. ‘Chosen’ I think might be a generous description of events as at the weekend it seemed that some senior Libs appeared to be openly questioning the direction of the party.

The Lib Dems have looked very rocky in Westminster over the past few months and the different polls have battered them. One of the factors that must have been significant was Brown not calling the election. Essentially Campbell would have been forced out after an election and not that its not happening he’s calling it a day.

Who then are the runners and riders to takeover…Nick Clegg from the right-leaning wing of the party, Chris Huhne from the left leaning wing will doubtless be in the mix. Another names being mentioned include Vince Cable, Steve Webb and the obvious speculation that Charles Kennedy may try to return – though I wouldn’t be putting any money on that.

Whoever gets the job will be the Libs third leader in less than 2 years. What impact it has on the Scottish Lib Dems remains to be seen and will doubtless depend on the direction the new leader tries to take them.