Cable says it's difficult working with Tories

It is not inevitable that the coalition Government will survive but it is a "very good bet", Business Secretary Vince Cable said today.

The Liberal Democrat told the Sunday Times it was difficult working with former political opponents.

He said: "I don't think any of us pretend it is not. Orientating myself into co-operation has required effort and concentration."

Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg yesterday attempted to laugh off criticism from Tory right-wingers who mockingly branded his alliance with David Cameron "Brokeback Coalition".

Mr Clegg said there was bound to be frustration among the Conservative and Liberal Democrat rank-and-file, but insisted it did not pose a "threat" to the new government.

The response came after former shadow home secretary David Davis was overheard apparently spelling out his concerns about the partnership.

According to the Financial Times, the MP told businessmen that Lord Ashcroft, the ex-Conservative Party deputy chairman, had described the Government as "Brokeback Coalition" - a reference to the Oscar-winning film Brokeback Mountain, about a gay relationship.