FIRST minister Rhodri Morgan has launched a robust defence of his deputy and accused opponents of "smears, sneers and slurs".

Mr Morgan said accusations about the past business dealings of deputy first minister Michael German had no part in grown-up politics. His comments came during first minister's question time yesterday.

Former Liberal Democrat leader Sir Paddy Ashdown, on a trip to support one of his party's candidates in Cardiff, described the allegations against Mr German as an "old smear" which has been "dragged out like a smelly fish" during the general election.

Mr Morgan said: "Trailing these smears and sneers and slurs back and fore across the chamber from Ieuan Wyn Jones to Nick Bourne plays no actual part in mature grown-up politics."

Conservative Assembly leader Nick Bourne triggered the outburst, pressing the first minister for a full debate on Mr German's position.

Concerns have been raised about Mr German's past business dealings when he headed the European unit of the Welsh Joint Education

Committee. The concerns were highlighted in a leaked auditors' report. Plaid Cymru leader Ieuan Wyn Jones asked on what grounds Mr German would have to resign. Mr Morgan said he would have to stand down if there was a formal police investigation.