Lib Dems 'must be left of Labour'

Sir Menzies said Mr Kennedy's departure had been 'inevitable'

Sir Menzies Campbell has promised to fight the next general election to the left of Labour if he wins the contest to become Liberal Democrat leader.

Tony Blair had "squeezed values out of politics", while Tory leader David Cameron was "certainly not a liberal", he told the Guardian.

Sir Menzies also said it was a "myth" that he had been against Lib Dem opposition to the Iraq war.

Mark Oaten, Chris Huhne and Simon Hughes are also in the leadership race.

'Confluence of events'

Sir Menzies denied rumours that he had plotted to oust former party leader Charles Kennedy, who resigned last Saturday after admitting a drink problem.

The "confluence of events" had made the departure "inevitable", he added.

Asked whether he wanted the Lib Dems to be to the left of Labour and the Conservative Party, he said: "Yes. I am a creature of the centre left."

Sir Menzies, acting as party leader until a replacement for Mr Kennedy is elected, is facing criticism for his performance at prime minister's questions on Wednesday.

He was mocked by Tony Blair for asking about schools with acting, rather than permanent, head teachers.

Mr Blair joked it was hard to fill jobs in "failing organisations".

But Sir Menzies, 64, is believed to have the backing of more than a third of the 62 Liberal Democrat MPs.

To stand, candidates must have the backing of at least seven MPs and backing from a range of local associations.

Nominations close on 25 January and a result is expected on 2 March, following a vote by party members.