LIBERAL Democrat leader Nick Clegg said his party offers a "fair way to balance the books" during a visit to Hampshire.

Mr Clegg was speaking during a visit to yacht restorer Fairlie at Hamble marina.

He met local apprentices and spoke about his party's record in creating apprenticeships as part of the Coalition Government.

Speaking to the Daily Echo, he said an "unprecedented" 2 million apprenticeships had been created since 2010, adding: "that is a rate we have never seen before and what we want to do is at least double the number made available, especially by emerging employers who may have been worried by the paperwork."

He also supported Lib Dem Eastleigh candidate Mike Thornton, who was first elected in the 2013 by-election, saying "I think people are very impressed with what he's done".

Talking about what his party offer, he said he did not think any party would win enough votes to form a majority government, adding: "I think the more people look at the choices they realise that if you have a Conservative Government you're not actually going to get a Conservative Government, whatever David Cameron says he knows that in his heart of hearts."

Referring to UKIP, he added: ‎"You would have a Conservative Government at the beck and call of the swivel-eyed brigade.

"And with Ed Miliband and Labour they would be dancing to the tune of Alex Salmond.

"We would be safe, stable and fair.

"We would balance the books fairly."