Lib Dem Coalition Government (2010-2015)
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During the 2010 general election, the result was a hung parliament. This means that no party secured enough seats to form a government.
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The Liberal Democrats, under Nick Clegg, formed a coalition government with the Conservative Party which was led by David Cameron.
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This was the first coalition government in the UK since World War II.
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The coalition introduced quite unpopular policies. Some of them were harsh austerity measures and the other, the most unpopular for A-level students wishing to go university, an increase in tuition fees.
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The Liberal Democrats faced criticism for supporting the rise in university tuition fees as it was against their election pledge.
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The coalition lasted until 2015. After that, the Liberal Democrats lost most of their seats in the general election, this was bound to happen following the backlash they faced.
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The coalition period remains a significant chapter in Liberal Democrat history, showing both their influence and the risks of coalition politics. It also signals the start of the end of the grip the two-party system has had on UK politics.
