Mixed smoke signals at Westminster

Surreal day at Hogwarts. Lib Dem MPs discussing the deal and so far no white smoke. One who left the meeting thought a deal today unlikely, based presumably on the fluid nature of chat in the room. Not how the Tories were talking earlier.

Shadow Cabinet simultaneously chatting in David Cameron’s office. Then No Turning Back Group joint meeting with Cornerstone. Then all Tory MPs meet at 6.

Expectation still that what’s being discussed falls short of a coalition but gives some security of tenure – how long we don’t know.

Meanwhile around 250 new MPs walk around with green stickers looking lost.