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David Cameron could stay on as Prime Minister and try to get his plans through Parliament even if he cannot form a majority government, according to the former head of the Civil Service.

Former Cabinet Secretary Lord Gus O'Donnell said it would be up to Mr Cameron's political judgement whether he thought there was a "clear alternative" government.

The Prime Minister remains in office after the election and he could take a Queen's Speech to the House of Commons "even if he's well short on numbers", said Lord O'Donnell.

Lord O'Donnell, who coordinated coalition negotiations after 2010's election, said a manual he helped draw up after the last election technically allowed that to happen.

Lord O'Donnell said that while this would be feasible whether or not it was reasonable would be a "test of political judgement".