Under his leadership the party has advanced to its best position for 80 years and the party will forever be in his debt. Today we must wish him and his family well.

As deputy leader I will be assuming his responsibilities with immediate effect and over the next 48 hours will obviously be consulting colleagues.

But I can confirm today that I intend to be candidate in the leadership contest which is to follow.

I am very sad that Charles Kennedy's leadership has ended in this way.

As everyone knows I have always strongly supported him and his statement today reminded us of why he was elected leader.

This has clearly been a very difficult time for Charles and those close to him but, as is typical of the man, he has decided to put the interests of the party first.

Charles Kennedy confronted his problems and appealed for support, but his MPs have responded by knifing him in the front.

Julius Caesar was better treated by Brutus than Charles Kennedy by his colleagues. Whatever else, the Liberal Democrats have now lost their reputation as the 'nice party' in politics.

I'm very proud of him and what he's achieved with the party.

I think he made a first-class speech and he was very forthcoming and very straight and we are immensely proud of him.

He's done very well over the past six years. In a way I'm glad it is over but I don't think it needed to come to this. But what do I know about the background to politics? I never ask questions.

He's got a good wife and a lovely child there, so as long as they are all well that's the main thing and he will have more time now with the family.

He's had our support forever and always will. You always support your own.

I am proud of a friend who has shown such dignity and courage and who has contributed so much to the cause of liberal democracy.