Yet Chris Huhne, Sir Ming's most threatening rival, has been in Parliament for only ten months and many thought his bid presumptuous.

ECONOMIST: Liberal Democrats

Former Liberal Democrat leader, Sir Ming Campbell, whose constituency includes the Leuchars base, accused the government of basing its decisions on political rather than security concerns.

BBC: Scotland

His professionally run campaign could run Sir Ming uncomfortably close.

ECONOMIST: Bagehot

Delegates will have an opportunity to size up their new UK Leader, Sir Menzies (known as Ming) Campbell.

BBC: NEWS | Programmes | Politics Show | Wales: Where next for Welsh Lib Dems?