Cable admits difficulties of working with Tories
The Liberal Democrat said it was difficult working with former political opponents. He said: "I don't think any of us pretend it is not. Orientating myself into co-operation has required effort and concentration."
Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg, meanwhile, attempted to laugh off criticism from Tory right-wingers who mockingly branded his alliance with David Cameron "Brokeback Coalition", a reference to the Oscar-winning film Brokeback Mountain, about a gay relationship.
Mr Clegg said there was bound to be frustration among the Conservative and Liberal Democrat rank-and-file, but insisted it did not pose a "threat" to the new government.