Charles Kennedy has told the Guardian he is optimistic about the general election.

The Liberal Democrat leader said sometimes at elections the national mood is obvious, but that at the moment the electorate is unsettled - largely thanks to the war in Iraq and the "distaste, and sometimes disgust, at the way Labour and the Conservatives are conducting themselves."

But Kennedy confirmed his party will make the case for a Britain that is governed as a progressive, outward looking, environmentally friendly society.

"I favour multiculturalism and our traditions of tolerance and inclusiveness," he said.

And he also argues the election is now "clearly three-party politics".

"I won't predict the outcome, but I do sense that our democracy is moving in a new direction and the Liberal Democrats are integral and essential to achieving that change," he said.

Meanwhile in an interview in the Independent, Kennedy calls on his party to "raise its game" between now and polling day.

He said the Lib Dems must strive to live up to "public expectation".