John Major backing for coalition

Former Conservative prime minister Sir John Major last night backed the Conservative-Liberal coalition government and said its programme was "essential to national well-being".

Sir John, speaking at Cambridge University, said he hoped a way could be found to "prolong co-operation" if necessary.

He said Labour's 13 years in power had not been "serious government".

"Many Tories and Liberals are hostile - or, at least, agnostic - to the coalition," said Sir John, during a lecture at Churchill College, Cambridge.

"I approve of it. In present circumstances, it has many attractions."