Nick Clegg's office has this morning announced which party would be the Lib Dem's preferred partner in the event of another hung Parliament at the 2015 UK General Election.
Despite reassurances from other key coalition players that there will not be an early election and that the coalition remains strong, this morning's announcement has reignited speculation that the three main parties are beginning to gear up their campaign machines in preparation for the 2015 election.
A somewhat embarrassed spokesperson for Nick Clegg read directly from a prepared statement written in blue crayon on the back of an envelope:
"Following a great deal of consideration about the matter, I am delighted to announce that, in the event of another hung Parliament at the next general election, the party that will be the Liberal Democrat's preferred partner will be Bloc Party. Having considered the options carefully, I have decided that the policies of the Labour and Conservative parties are altogether too certain for us to partner with them. It is a fundamental facet of the Liberal Democrats under my leadership, that we will be a modern, flexible and dynamic party - allowing us to change our policies and opinions swiftly and efficiently. The concept of being tied to manifesto pledges, policies and promises is outmoded and outdated in a digital society that moves so rapidly. Their lack of any millstone-like policies, make Bloc Party the ideal partner in the event of another hung parliament."
Following the early morning announcement, BBC Political Correspondent Nick Robinson managed to catch up with Prime Minister David Cameron and asked him about his views on the announcement. "I'm confident that Nick is still committed to the coalition as it stands and the Conservative party is equally committed to working with our valued partners in the Lib Dem party until the 2015 general election. I believe that the Conservative Party will win an outright majority at the next election, and speculation about a further hung parliament is fruitless."
Robert Peston, the BBC's Business Editor spoke to fellow Lib Dem, Vince Cable as he left his London home this morning. When asked about his opinion on the announcement, a surprised looking Mr Cable turned an unhealthy shade of crimson, began muttering under his breath and promptly returned to his home, slamming the front door behind him. Shortly afterwards a prolonged scream of exasperation followed by a muffled torrent of choice expletives emanated from the house.
