SIR MENZIES Campbell, who is running for the leadership of the Liberal Democrats, is the new chancellor of St Andrews University.

While no one on the university executive was last night prepared to confirm he will succeed Sir Kenneth Dover, it is understood Sir Menzies was the only nomination put forward.

The university invited nominations for the position last month following the decision by Sir Kenneth to retire from office at the end of the year.

Nominations closed at midnight on Monday and it is believed the North East Fife MP—recently voted parliamentarian of the year for his fifth major political award in two years—was the only candidate proposed and seconded. He was widely regarded as favourite to succeed should an election have been required.

Sir Menzies will be expected to promote the university’s image throughout the world and to further its interests within Scotland and beyond.

It is not known if a victory in the Lib Dem leadership contest might affect his decision to take on the university role.