The Lib Dem Leadership - a positive decision

After a lot of heart-searching and consulting friends, colleagues and - not least - family, I've finally decided not to stand for election as next leader of the Liberal Democrats.

There are a number of reasons for my decision, but one of the most positive is that I think we already have in the field an excellent potential leader of the party in the shape of Nick Clegg who I will now be backing. I've known Nick for several years and have always been impressed by his sharp mind, his strong presentational skills, his strategic political judgment and also his way with people. I think he is best placed to take the party forward and I look forward to working with him if he is elected to help strengthen our party and take us on to new achievements.

I've talked in depth with Nick about the issues that are particularly important to me, including making sure that our message on public services is distinctive and stresses the importance of fair access for all to quality schools, hospitals and pensions, and I have confidence that he understands and shares those concerns.

On a personal level, it has become clear to me that a campaign and the job of leader would have a huge cost for us as a family based outside London.

I would like to place on record my thanks to the large numbers of MPs, party members, friends and total strangers (!) who have urged me to stand for all their good wishes and encouragement.