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This post may seem a little off topic. Generally, the theme of divorce is only discussed in its literal context on this blog, but not only are the stories of a potential split between the Tories and the Lib Dems interesting reading, they also provide me with the opportunity to discuss issues I raised in a previous post: ‘Do Schisms in Political Opinion Lead to Divorce?’ Whilst this post discussed how individual opinions can lead to divorce, the divisions that have appeared within a coalition government comprised of two political parties that could not be more polarised in their administrative outlooks serve as a clear example of how differing opinions can lead to divorce, whether it be on a political, commercial or personal level. Consider, for example, how the debates between the two parties concerning the UK’s fiscal policies could mirror the discussions that could take place between a married couple who are debating their own financial position. One half of the couple arguing that they need to curb their spending in order to preserve their solvency, the other claiming that being a few hundred pounds overdrawn is not a pressing concern. Similar comparisons could be made with regards to discussions concerning the penal system (considering how best to discipline the children), education (debating whether or not to send the children to a private school) and the welfare state (deliberating how much pocket money to give the children each week). The actions of Mr Cameron and Mr Clegg reflect those of a couple that chose to marry despite the fact that one is an old Etonian that staunchly promotes laissez-faire and rugged individualism whilst the other is a radical liberal that donates half of their salary to any number of charities. Whilst there is some truth to the saying ‘opposites attract’, however, the vast majority of such couples will soon be filing for divorce. A minority of these couples will survive, though as their love for one another will encourage them to learn how to negotiate and arrive at appropriate compromises. Compromises between two polarised political parties, however, is far less likely. Not only is the task of creating policies which reflect both Conservative and Liberal viewpoints a highly problematic task, but the core supporters of either party is certain to be repulsed by the introduction, or even proposal, of any legislation which so much as hints at Conservative/Liberal leaning. The marriage between the Conservatives and Liberal Democrats is a marriage of convenience only and, as with all such marriages, divorce is beckoning.