Tuition fees

The relationship between the coalition partners will face its first serious challenge with the release of Lord Browne's report.

The report is expected to recommend doubling the cap on tuition fees to £7,000.

This represents a significant quandary for Lib Dem MPs who all pledged not to vote for any increase in fees. Student support is a key constituency for the party.

The Lib Dems are expected to abstain, but some have made it clear that they will rebel against any increase.

Nick Clegg will be torn between avoiding an embarrassing defeat for the coalition government and safeguarding his party's manifesto commitments.

Vince Cable's mooted 'graduate tax' has apparently been shelved, though the Lib Dem leadership will be desperate to apply some progressive tag to the changes.

Ed Miliband has attempted to undermine the coalition by promising to support Lib Dem MPs who rebel against the government.