The World - News from Jan. 18, 1988

Britain’s Liberal and Social Democratic parties, after a week of conflict, announced agreement on a plan to merge. The new policy document is the second attempt to formulate a constitution designed to forge a party capable of challenging the ruling Conservatives. The Liberal Party recently rebelled against the first document, casting serious doubt over the possibility of an alliance. Merger talks have been held since last June’s general election when the two parties, standing together, won only 22 seats between them. The new document was drawn up by a six-member joint committee, which said details will remain secret until it has been considered by party officials today.