If - despite the spiralling National Debt and the budget deficit target being drastically behind target - the Tories are in a position to look for a coalition partner after the next election, it is unlikely that the Lib Dems will help again!

A recent poll put the Lib Dems at 7%, just behind the Greens (8%). UKIP were backed by 18% of voters.

So who will the Tories start talking to? As another coalition is inevitable.

The Tories have few natural affinities - and have ruled out some alliances. UKIP, perhaps (or the Greens) - as a third of Tory voters favour a UKIP coalition. And UKIP will discuss a coalition arrangement with the Tories or Labour.

However, it may well be that Labour is a more attractive (and versatile) prospect for some partner(s)...