VP gives Vajpayee two years

Describing problems of coalition politics as transitional, he said it is a new political experiment which the country is undergoing. He recalled that BJP which was critical about United Front coalition in the past was now practising coalition politics. “At least in the UF, there was no problem in getting support letter.But in BJP’s case the allies are demanding their pound of flesh even before signing the support letter,” he said.

Singh said as the former finance minister he would suggest consensus politics in certain areas like foreign policy, defence, national security and nuclear issue.

To a question, Singh said the concept of formation of a national government was not feasible. Singh suggested formation of a National Security Council, particularly at a time when governments were changing frequently.

He demanded a national debate on the nuclear issue saying whatever step was taken it should be through a national consensus.

On the economic front, he said there was maximum need for consensus for giving a stable investment and tax environment and suggested that excise duties should not be changed every year.

On the issue of corruption, the former prime minister said MLAs were making mockery of democracy as was evident during the recent vote of confidence in Uttar Pradesh.