So, Tony Blair finally calls it a day after 10 years as Prime Minister. A Nation heaves a heavy sigh of relief, after reducing New Labour to just 27% of the the national vote in the local elections. The Conservatives, despite continuing weakness in Scotland and, to a lesser extent, in Wales managed 41%.
The ironic thing about Blair's resignation was that it was induced by his own party. Blair continues to be far more popular than the Labour Party, and certainly more appealing than PM elect; Gordon Brown.
In a country that leans to the centre-right, it was Blair's achievement to win three elections. This, despite the rabid left-wing that he had managed to marginalise. Having lost four consecutive elections to the Conservatives, Blair was tolerated by the left; in order to gain power. The Labour Party has never had such success, and it seems inconceivable that Gordon Brown can carry that legacy on.
So, the labour Party will, no doubt, lurch to the left and Cameron, as Conservative leader, will continue to emulate Blair by saying nothing of substance and managing to annoy less voters than the opposition.
That will be, perhaps, Blair's true legacy. The politics of conviction will gradually disappear, as voters become even more intolerant of views that they do not themselves hold. Pretty much what has been seen in France with the election of Sarkozy, where an unholy alliance of the militant left and disaffected Islamic youth have continued to riot since last Sunday. The tragedy is that Nations develop when their leaders have a vision for the future, rather than having an eye on the latest opinion poll or focus group.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
2 comments:
Mark
Both our countries are on the slide to socialism. If in fact both are center right in philosophy then it is curious why they don't rise up and throw out the politicians who are not center right in deeds. Britain has it's Londinistan and EU. America has it's invasion of illegals and NAFTA.
I am reminded of Prof Alexander Tyler, Edinborough Univ 1787, who said that when the people realize they can vote benefits from the public coffers, they will vote for the candidates who offer the most.
Ben,
I tend to agree with you. I'm interested to see how the proposed amnesty takes shape in the States.
It has been rumoured that Gordon Brown is considering the same action, once he assumes power in June.
The greatest problem seems to be a general apathy in both countries. Politicians tend to get blamed, but I also believe that is as a result of a fall in civic duty. In short, we get the politicians we deserve But as they say, who cares?
Best wishes,
Mark
Post a Comment