“A colleague and friend who never wavered in his principles, values or pro-European beliefs.”

Charles Kennedy and I were the last of the Liberal Democrat class of ’83 to leave the House of Commons – as we both lost
despite our best efforts at the recent General Election. From 1983-2015 together in the House of Commons and around the
country, I saw a friend and colleague who never wavered in his Liberal principles, never wavered in his determination and never wavered in his generous friendships.

Charles burst into political prominence by winning his seat at the first attempt when he was only 23. He remained a star of the political firmament until his tragic and untimely death, in his beloved home town of Fort William.
In 1988, Charles helped to lead the SDP into the merger with the Liberal party to form the most successful third party in British politics since the 1920s. His overriding passions were for greater social justice and to make sure that Britain always played a full part in the European Union and on the international stage.

As Leader, Charles led the Liberal Democrat opposition to the Iraq war and in so doing united millions in the country behind him. Our success in parliament and in successive elections under his leadership paved the way for our participation in government from 2010 – even though Charles himself had concerns about going into coalition with the Conservatives. Throughout, our credibility in the country was hugely enhanced by Charles, who was one of the best
political communicators of our generation.

It is a tragedy that he will not be here to help fight the coming battle for Britain’s European future. We must just hope and pray that the affection felt by so many for him gives strength and support to Sarah, to his son Donald and all of Charles’ family.

Sir Simon Hughes, the former Lib Dem deputy leader and party president; served in the House of Commons with Charles Kennedy from 1983, both losing in 2015. He contested the party leadership with Charles in 1999.