Russell Johnston

I was very sorry to hear of the death of Russell Johnston, latterly Lord Russell-Johnston. The Liberal Party and the Liberal Democrats were most fortunate to have such a sensible and dignified Liberal, who was a steadying influence in the transition between the two parties.

Let's also not forget that Russell Johnston helped the Liberal Party increase its seats in Parliament from 6 to 9 in the 1964 general election. (He took his seat in full Highland dress). So, we owe him a debt of gratitude for helping to keep the Liberal flame burning at several crucial points in our history.

At the time I remember being reassured by Johnston who just seemed instinctly Liberal on all things, as well as being hugely sensible, dignified and good-humoured.

He is a great loss to our party.

Liberal Democrat Voice has a collection of moving tributes to Russell Johnston from senior LibDem figures here.