AS The Conservative and Liberal Democrats begin the difficult Westminster task of making their coalition work, Argyll politicians have been giving their take on the political alliance.

For the Labour party, Highlands and Islands list MSP Peter Peackock said: “LibDem voters across the Highlands and Islands will be dismayed that they voted LibDem only for the LibDems to usher the Tory Party in the door of number ten.
“To have the LibDem negotiations led by a Highland MP just adds insult to the injury.
“The people of the UK, let alone Scotland, made it very clear they didn't want a Tory Government, but thanks to the Liberal Democrats that is exactly what they have got. People will not forget this, and nor should they.”

Argyll and Bute’s Liberal Democrat MP, Alan Reid, countered: “This is a good deal for the country.   It is a deal that we have made with the Conservatives because the Labour party was not interested in joining a coalition government.
“Many policies from the Liberal Democrat manifesto are included in the coalition’s programme.   We will work with the Conservatives to tackle the massive budget deficit that Labour left behind.
“Fairer taxes, investment in jobs that will last, measures to help the environment and fairer, cleaner politics are all promises which we will now deliver. The Calman Commission's recommendations to give more powers to the Scottish Parliament will be implemented.”

For the SNP, Argyll and Bute MSP Jim Mather did not join the backbiting when he told the Standard: “It is to be hoped that we will see the new Westminster coalition move on fair voting and on allowing all parts of the UK to grow and flourish.
“This is an important test of both parties and their new young leaders and Scotland will be watching to ensure that we get a fair deal and a proper chance to create opportunities for more people in Scotland.
“It is also a salutary moment for the Liberal Democrats from whom we now expect to see some financial reality, recognising the cuts that will be imposed on Scotland, and recognising that money cannot be spent twice.”