Carmichael congratulates new Lib Dem leader Farron

Isles MP Alistair Carmichael has added his congratulations to Tim Farron on being elected as leader of the UK Liberal Democrat party.

Mr Farron, 45, beat Norman Lamb in the contest to replace Nick Clegg. He received 19,137 of the 33,897 votes cast, which amounted to 56.5 per cent.

He is aiming to rebuild the party after a disastrous General Election which left the Lib Dems with just eight MPs.

Mr Farron, who did not serve in the coalition with the Conservatives, said “a new army” of supporters could help the party recover its popularity.

While he described the outgoing leader Mr Clegg as “truly remarkable”, his heroes are said to include former Northern Isles MP Jo Grimond, punk music icon Joe Strummer and author C S Lewis.

Mr Carmichael said: “We have a huge job ahead of us but I know that Tim will give it 100 per cent. Britain needs strong liberal voices more than ever today. I know that Tim will bring real drive and energy to making that liberal voice heard.

“Commiserations to Norman Lamb who also fought a great campaign. We are fortunate to have this quality of political talent to give leadership to our party.”