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21/06/2007
Ashdown rejects Brown overture
Lord Ashdown has said that prime minister in-waiting Gordon Brown offered him a seat on the cabinet as Northern Ireland Secretary of State.
The former leader of the Liberal Democrats said that the offer had come after Wednesday's announcement by party leader Sir Menzies Campbell that no Lib Dem would be part of a Brown's government.
Lord Ashdown said that he could only have considered the post, if he had the party leader's approval.
It is understood that a meeting between Mr Brown and Sir Menzies on Monday touched on junior cabinet roles in government for senior Lib Dem members.
However, while there has been speculation that Lib Dems have been offered cabinet post previously under Mr Blair, the two parties remain fierce rivals in national and local polls.
(SP/JM)
The former leader of the Liberal Democrats said that the offer had come after Wednesday's announcement by party leader Sir Menzies Campbell that no Lib Dem would be part of a Brown's government.
Lord Ashdown said that he could only have considered the post, if he had the party leader's approval.
It is understood that a meeting between Mr Brown and Sir Menzies on Monday touched on junior cabinet roles in government for senior Lib Dem members.
However, while there has been speculation that Lib Dems have been offered cabinet post previously under Mr Blair, the two parties remain fierce rivals in national and local polls.
(SP/JM)
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
