Campbell brought back into the Liberal Democrats’ top team

Former Liberal Democrat leader Menzies Campbell has been brought back into the party’s top team as part of a reshuffle announced by Sir Vince Cable.

Tim Farron, who quit as leader after the general election, has been tasked with drawing up plans to regenerate the north of England under the shake-up.

With just 12 Lib Dems holding seats in the House of Commons, peers feature heavily in the list.

After a decade-long absence from the frontbenches, Lord Campbell of Pittenweem becomes defence spokesman. 0 Menzies Campbell was given the role as part of a reshuffle

Sir Vince will take on the economic and business roles, a move that reflects his expertise and experience in predicting the causes of the financial crisis, the Lib Dems said.

New roles for Lord Storey, former Liverpool city council leader, and Lord Shipley, who led Newcastle city council, show the party’s commitment to restoring its fortunes in local government, according to Sir Vince.

It comes after Norman Lamb announced last month that he was stepping down as health spokesman. He has been replaced by Baroness Jolly.

Former journalist Christine Jardine takes over the Scotland brief from Jamie Stone, who will now speak on the armed forces.

Sir Vince said: “I am fortunate to lead such a great, gender-balanced team.”