Kennedy: I'll rid the Lib-Dems of loony policies

Charles Kennedy today moved to rid the Liberal Democrats of "loony policies" - and cast a question mark over the party's pledge for a local income tax.

He used his first post-election speech to announce a review of all policies, which could see the planned shake-up of council tax dumped. He also called for new rules to stop the annual conference imposing controversial ideas on the leadership.

Among the ideas that caused embarrassment during the election were allowing 16-year-olds to buy pornography, putting a tax on pet dogs, and banning fairground goldfish.

Mr Kennedy said: "We must consider whether it should be possible to commit the party to specific and often controversial policies on the basis of a brief debate in a largely empty hall."

His call is certain to cause a split at the September conference. The Lib-Dems are the only party that lets members decide policies, and many activists prize their influence. Debates have been held on topics ranging from abolishing the monarchy to legalising cannabis.