The government takes shape

Here are some details of the LibCon deal, and my brief comments:

1. Clegg as Deputy PM. It’s a non-job, but a senior one – it means Clegg will take PMQs in Cameron’s absence, and will defend all those nasty cuts (sharing the blame for these cuts is the main rationale for coalition). This follows the 1999 Lib-Lab deal in Scotland, where Jim Wallace was made Deputy First Minister to everyone’s surprise.

2. Laws replaces Gove in education. This has not been confirmed yet, and I will not believe it until I see it. Of all of tonight’s moves this is potentially the most concerning – especially for all those (including myself) who had said that the Gove schools policy was the best single reason to vote Tory. The Lib Dems agree with the principle, but propose a local authority veto: a move which would kill the policy. The Lib Dems have reiterated tonight that they are committed to the principle of free schools – but this policy lives or dies in the its detail.