The Liberal Democrats have steadily increased their vote in recent general elections and opinion polls suggest they will take an even higher share on May 5. They stand to win over Labour voters disenchanted with Tony Blair's leadership and Conservative supporters unconvinced by Michael Howard's hard-faced Toryism. Given the similarities between the main parties, there was an opportunity for Charles Kennedy to present a real alternative - an opportunity he has sadly squandered.

On some issues, the LibDems can claim a good record of providing backbone in opposition to the government. In opposing British involvement in the Iraq war, Mr Kennedy was mercilessly harried by the Conservatives who had supported it. On human rights, the LibDems have consistently defended long-established liberties against the government's illiberal instincts.