Menzies Campbell treated for lymph cancer

Menzies Campbell, the Liberal Democrats' foreign affairs spokesman, is being treated for cancer. Mr Campbell, regarded as the party's elder statesman, is to have chemotherapy for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.

The MP for North-east Fife intends to keep working while he is having treatment and is said to be "very upbeat". His chances of recovery are regarded as good.

The cancer of the lymphatic glands was discovered during a medical investigation into a problem with an old hip injury.

The politician's office said he would fulfil his obligations as an MP as far as his treatment allowed and that he would continue to fulfil his obligations as a member of Parliament as far as his treatment would allow.

Mr Campbell has shaped the Liberal Democrat policy on over Iraq and has recently committed himself to a gruelling schedule of media broadcasts on the subject.

The Tory leader, Iain Duncan Smith, said: "He is a great character in the Commons. We wish him a speedy recovery."