Reading Conservatives have accused the Lib Dems of actively taking part in party politics. The vicious slur was delivered during a heated debate in the council chamber when local Conservatives repeatedly propped up the beleaguered Labour minority administration.

"It's a bloody disgrace," said Tory group leader Andrew Cumpsty. "Those bloody Lib Dems come in here and propose motions asking for things to be done during a political meeting. That's not how we do it around here. And it is outrageous that they should go out and talk to people, send out press releases and deliver leaflets, is that what politics has come to? Rubbish, politics is about using parliamentary allowances for political purposes and rich donors to spread lies on glossy paper whilst doing absolutely nothing that involves making a decision."

"If the Lib Dems weren't so naive they would know that the correct procedure is to refer all items back to the CCEA scrutiny panel where David Stevens will roll over, waggle his arms and legs in the air and vote with the Labour Party. That's the Tory way."