University Chancellor Lord Campbell Dies at 84

On Friday 26 September, the University of St Andrews announced the death of University Chancellor, The Right Honourable Lord Campbell of Pittenweem CH CBE KC FRSE. He was 84.

Principal and Vice-Chancellor Dame Sally Mapstone FRSE confirmed his passing in a university-wide email, describing him as “Our Chancellor, constant friend, and champion of this University, and one of the great political figures of the modern age.”

Lord Campbell had served as Chancellor since April 2006, succeeding Sir Kenneth Dover, and received an honorary Doctor of Laws at his installation ceremony. The University has lowered its flags to half-mast in tribute, with no confirmation yet on how long they will remain lowered.

Dame Mapstone told colleagues and students that Lord Campbell “had been receiving respite care in London for several weeks, and while he had hoped to return to Scotland, he passed away peacefully in the early hours of this morning in the presence of his grandson, Gregor.” She added that his family “would like to thank his care facility, Kyn Hurlingham, for their exceptional care and attention over the last few months.”

Born in Glasgow in 1941, Lord Menzies ‘Ming’ Campbell was educated at Hillhead High School and the University of Glasgow, where he earned an MA in 1962 and an LLB in 1965, serving as President of both the Liberal Club and the University Union. He later studied International Law at Stanford University before being called to the Scottish Bar in 1968 and appointed Queen’s Counsel in 1984.

Encouraged by his wife Elspeth, Lady Campbell, he entered politics and represented North-East Fife as MP from 1987 to 2015, winning six consecutive elections with her support as his parliamentary secretary. Married for over 50 years, he described her as his “constant political companion” and “first line of defence” following her death in June 2023. Lady Campbell was the daughter of war hero Major General Roy Urquhart.

Dame Mapstone highlighted Lord Campbell’s reputation as a dedicated constituency MP, defending local interests such as fishing, farming, the University, and RAF Leuchars. She recalled his energy on the campaign trail, noting he was “often known to run between the doors when canvassing.”

On the national stage, Lord Campbell became a leading figure in international affairs and defence. He served as the Liberal Democrats’ Foreign Affairs Spokesperson from 1992 to 2006, became Deputy Leader in 2003, and led the party from 2006 to 2007. He was awarded a CBE in 1987, appointed to the Privy Council in 1999, knighted in 2004, and made a Companion of Honour in 2013 before entering the House of Lords in 2015. Beyond Westminster, he played a leading role in the NATO Parliamentary Assembly, heading the UK delegation and chairing key committees on defence and transatlantic security.

Alongside politics, Lord Campbell was also an accomplished athlete. He represented Great Britain at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, captained the national athletics team in 1965 and 1966, and held the British 100-metre sprint record from 1967 to 1974.

“Ming was a familiar face on campus,” said the Principal, adding how the Chancellor enjoyed “capping many new graduates when he was able to preside over our graduation ceremonies.”

Dame Mapstone reflected: “Ming dedicated his time and expertise to the University with great generosity and regularly represented St Andrews dutifully at home and abroad. He had an unfailing ability to put everyone at ease, from politicians, constituents, students and staff, and a gift of never forgetting a face or name. We will miss his reassuring presence and his warmth and wit.”

The Saint has contacted the University for comment on memorial plans for Lord Campbell and on what his passing means for the process of succession as University Chancellor.

Image provided by the University of St Andrews