Now let me start this post with a disclaimer: this is simply future gazing, and intended to provoke debate. The virtues of the eventualities discussed below are for others to dissect.
 
As TB somewhat awkwardly asked in his latest farewell message, cast your mind back to before 01/05/97. One characteristic of this time was speculation of a possible coalition with the Fibs.

Now, as luck had it, they were not needed. So, they were told to go hang. 


 
The Fibs are instantly a more interesting proposition. First, they have a leader who waxes lyrical about Gordo. On Question Time (9/5/07) Ming gave GB a glowing reference, tempering it all with a question as to the transferability of GB’s abilities to the office of PM.
 
Lets be fair: we’ve all had them.
 
However, a Cabinet position for Ming and assurances about the style of Government would certainly see LD’s prefer coalition with GB than Cameron.
 
But, that’s all a long way off. What can be done to court the Libs in the meantime?
 
Simple answer: There are a pressing number of constitutional issues that need discussion, revision, and decision. PR, the Lords, the Assemblies, Regionalisation – all these issues need to be revisited in a massive way.
 
It is a job for one man and one man only: step forward Baron Ashdown of Norton-sub-Hamdon.
 
He’s popular, likeable, well known and respected. Moreover, he has just been widely acclaimed for his role in the Balkans (despite ominous current developments). He is capable of taking on the position, be it in the Cabinet as Constitutional Affairs Minister or outside as the head of a special review, and delivering proposals that he is able to present to the nation as potential solutions.
 
GB must be considering it.