Darling: We’re ready to listen to the Lib Dems

By Alex Smith

Speaking on the Today Programme this morning, Alistair Darling reaffirmed Labour’s willingness to speak to the Lib Dems should Tory-Lib Dem talks break down.

Darling said:

“For my part, I don’t think it will do any good to let this process drag on. I understand that the Liberals and the Conservatives are engaged in talks today. I hope that by the end of today they will decide whether they can do a deal or not. We have made it clear that if they can’t then, of course, we are ready to listen to the Liberals.”

Lib Dem MPs are meeting with Tory MPs again at 10am this morning, and Nick Clegg is meeting a further group of his MPs at lunchtime. David Cameron will meet with his shadow cabinet, and then with the rest of his MPs, later this afternoon.