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Lib Dems rule out SNP coalition Lib Dems rule out SNP coalition
(about 1 hour later)
Liberal Democrats have tonight turned down the prospect of a coalition deal with the SNP to form the next government of Scotland. The Liberal Democrats have turned down the prospect of a coalition with the Scottish National Party to form the next government of Scotland.
Scottish Lib Dem leader Nicol Stephen said that the fundamental stumbling block was the nationalists' demand for a referendum on independence. Scottish Lib Dem leader Nicol Stephen said the fundamental stumbling block was the nationalists' demand for a referendum on independence.
Mr Stephen forecast that there would now be an SNP minority government at Holyrood following Thursday's election. Mr Stephen predicted there would now be an SNP minority government at Holyrood following Thursday's election.
Earlier, the Lib Dems ruled out a coalition deal with Labour.Earlier, the Lib Dems ruled out a coalition deal with Labour.
Mr Stephen disclosed that he had held talks with the SNP leader Alex Salmond, but these had failed to resolve their differences over the referendum. 'Fundamental barrier'
The Liberal Democrats would now work constructively in the interests of Scotland, he added. Mr Stephen said he had held talks with the SNP leader Alex Salmond, but these had failed to resolve their differences over the referendum.
In these circumstances it seems likely there will be a minority SNP government Nicol Stephen
"I made it clear to him that unless and until the SNP removes the fundamental barrier of a referendum on independence during the next four years, there can be no coalition," Mr Stephen added in a statement.
"We consistently stated to people across Scotland at all times during the campaign that this was our position and it will not change.
"In these circumstances it seems likely there will be a minority SNP government.
"The Scottish Liberal Democrats will work constructively to promote our positive policies in the new Parliament."
Earlier, Tavish Scott, who ran the Lib Dems' election campaign, said his party would not share power with Labour.