The National Post's John Ivison had earlier suggested that Michael Ignatieff would lead a Liberal-NDP coalition government, but a report on the CBC Web site has scotched that idea.

After a one-hour caucus meeting, Liberal MPs have decided that their current leader, Stephane Dion, will become prime minister if Governor-General Michaelle Jean decides to allow him to try to form a government.

First, the Conservatives will have to fall in a confidence vote next Monday. Prime Minister Stephen Harper could try to delay this vote or try to convince Jean to dissolve parliament and call another election.