three into two?

For years political programs would invite the government minister and their opposing shadow minister to discuss the finer points of a given issue. The rise in prominence of the Lib Dems changed that dynamic from bi-partisan to tri-partisan. Three way conversations, three different inputs, three different angles, three sets of ideas and solutions.

That might have just changed with the decision by the Lib Dems to accept the offer of a formal coalition. I don't see a way for a Lib Dem and Tory representative to be discussing a topic with a Labour representative. The idea of having two members of the party of government arguing against a solitary member of the opposition is hardly likely to be countenanced by Mad Hattie and, if I'm honest, Dick Cleggeron is also unlikely to give Paxman the opportunity to pick at divisions between members of the new coalition.

I've joked about the #bbcqt question a few times but, in all seriousness, what happens next? If Lib Dems and Tories act independently of each other the opportunity for the coalition to unravel occurs a lot sooner. If they don't then one of the parties will have to stand aside in deference to the other at the next general election or they will fully merge to become one new party.

Interesting times indeed.