Fishburn Hedges

18.06.2010

The coalition government is now fully up and running, despite a few hiccups (David Laws’ resignation being the loudest).  But one nagging question for the Lib Dems is how to retain an independent voice?  Some would say they’ve been ‘swallowed up’ by the Conservatives – with those excluded from Ministerial position left to languish on the backbenches without a clear role. 

In a move that could irk some Conservatives, the Lib Dems are giving selected MPs a voice on policy issues.  These MPs will be dubbed ‘figureheads’ and will chair policy groups covering each departmental area of interest.  They won’t be spokespeople and will sit outside the coalition structure - although they will have access to some departmental information.  This may sound un-dramatic but the consequences could be significant. 

For the Lib Dems, this is a chance to retain their identity within Government and give voice to senior backbenchers (who might otherwise channel their energies into plotting against the coalition).  It’s yet to be seen how the initiative will play out and, as always, it will depend on the personalities involved.  For public affairs practitioners, it’ll be interesting to assess how and where these individuals will have an impact on the debate.