The Liberal Democrats are having a remarkable influence in government. 64% of our manifesto is in the coalition programme, and much of it is currently being implemented. If you would like a copy of the 23 page document detailing our influence please let me know. Coalition inevitably means compromise so there are some things we wanted to do but cannot (yet?) achieve. Likewise, of course, there are things the Conservatives would have done had they been on their own in government - things that we oppose, and will continue to oppose. And to make the coalition work, both partners are having to accept things that, on there own , they would reject. Being in government has involved a steep learning curve. The media has been quick to criticise the Libdem role and slow to recognise our achievements. Having said that, the powers that be within the party do recognise the need to improve communication with our supporters and the electorate at large. We have to accept that we are the junior partner and did not win the election - that makes the achievements so far all the more remarkable. And finally, rest assured that in Harrogate and Knaresborough there is no coalition - the Tories are still our political opponents and we are fighting hard to beat them in this May's election. I hope many readers of this blog will help us do so.