Blair's authority wanes as Reid carves out his position - Campbell

5.21.51pm GMT Tue 21st Nov 2006

Liberal Democrat Leader, Sir Menzies Campbell

Commenting on an interview by John Reid in which he said that foreign policy is sometimes a motivating factor in the radicalisation of young Muslims, Liberal Democrat Leader Menzies Campbell said "This is the first public acknowledgement by a senior cabinet minister that foreign policy has an influence in the radicalisation of young Muslims.

"Mr Reid's candour signifies a major departure from the line the Prime Minister has adopted.

"It is a measure of Mr Blair's waning authority that senior colleagues are now carving out their position."