article_snippet.sent: But behind the scenes, senior party sources admit senior party sources current total of 57 MPs will be slashed to 'in the thirties' after a catastrophic collapse in support.
article_snippet.sent: A party source said if the party had a group of MPs numbering 'in the 30s' the party could potentially hold the balance of power after May 7 and be able to once again form part of a coalition government.
article_snippet.sent: Asked if a seat count in the 30s' was realistic, A party source said: 'Oh yes.'
article_snippet.sent: Pressed on whether that was a 'best case' scenario, the senior Lib Dem said: 'I would like to say 150, but I think in fairness you wouldn't believe me. '