Some Lib Dems are privately saying that Charles Kennedy does not have the heart for the general election fight and has become depressed with his party's poll ratings.

Despite the Lib Dems current poll rating of 13 per cent Kennedy aides countered the claims by saying that he is a hit with voters. They point to his successes including asylum policy, the Romsey by-election and securing a place for PR in Labour's manifesto.

Kennedy told Lib Dem candidates yesterday he "was enjoying this election. It's what I call serious fun".