More mischief-making in the coalition talks. It has been suggested that
Nicol Stephen could become First Minister next Wednesday. How? Stick with
this, and keep a calculator to hand.

If it comes down to Jack McConnell versus Alex Salmond, the Nat has 47 votes
to Labour’s 46. If Salmond keeps the two Greens sweet, he is three clear of
the Labour leader. Meanwhile, you can assume the Tories (17) and Lib Dems
(16) sit on their hands.

But past experience has had the Tories nominating their own leader. It's a
futile gesture, but allows at least for an entertaining speech.

Lib Dems could do likewise and put up Nicol Stephen. If Tories abstain,
Labour could back the Lib Dem leader. Labour plus Lib Dems equals 62, while
SNP plus Greens makes 49. All of a sudden, the man who was relentlessly
positive and passionate about young people is planting a Lib Dem wind
turbine on the roof of Bute House.

The idea has been firmly knocked down by Labour. But no harm in keeping the
Nats on their toes.