The Liberal Democrats have set out the policies on which they will fight the next general election.

The 5,000 word document, assembled mainly by Matthew Taylor, chairman of the parliamentary party, comes in a tabloid newspaper format and is entitled "Freedom, fairness and trust".

The manifesto offers 10 reasons to vote for Charles Kennedy's party.

The document was published early because the party's strategists believe it takes six to nine months for the campaign teams to reach an apathetic electorate.