I'm dreading this Labour government TBH. They've got a majority based on Tory voters shifting to Reform, or tactically voting for Lib Dem, not by them gaining support. It was inevitable but I was hoping they would end up with a much smaller majority. Tories need to regroup fast because this country needs a competent opposition party. I'm not a fan of Starmer, but he did turn Labour into that. Whoever the next Tory leader is has got a huge job to do.
Home secretary James Cleverly retained Braintree, and took a swipe at Reform, criticising people who present “simple and thin solutions to challenging and complex problems” What, you mean like “Stop the Boats” and “Take back Control”, James?
Yes, that is a bit annoying. He can spread a lot of hate do a lot of damage with the disproportionate airtime the media will grant him.
Did you dread it when the Tories got a massive majority last time? Labour have the opportunity here to make significant change. They have made some dumb promises in this campaign about taxes and spending, but my hope is they begin to invest heavily into our social services and work to rebuild the social contract with young people.
Sorry I am tired - I read that as west Berkshire for some reason. Stayed up too late with the coverage. I think the statement applies to both? In terms of council and flipping LD? Edit: never mind that hasn’t been announced yet. I’m going mad
Well, no because historically I've voted Conservative. Just because I wanted the Tories out now it does not mean I have to like Labour taking power.
I have to say that despite the fact I am happy with the result, the disproportionality is extremely concerning. I have never liked FPTP and have always wanted it changed, but last night it completely collapsed as a viable system, it just can't handle more than two strong party performances. I fear the likes of Putin and Xi will be seeing a system that can be manipulated and this could become dangerous for us in future elections, Labour really really should take this seriously it could be a threat to National security in future.
But the party that disproportionally benefits has no incentives to change it. And one nearly always does. The time to do it was the coalition
Maybe not for now, but this might be the last time it does work for them. It is a dangerous gamble to keep it on at this point, in my opinion. I am very worried about what 2028/9 could look like.
I can’t understand anyone young voting Tory. They offer you nothing. I guess you don’t really remember- as people are busy rewriting the narrative - the bounce we had under New Labour and the investment in our social systems. This will not be like New Labour but I think we will see a real improvement from the bottom up.
There has to be real progress and tangible benefits from this Parliament. Or faith in politics, which is already low, will vanish completely and we’ll end up in as much trouble as France
Some hope here but this didn't make the Labour manifesto. https://www.electoral-reform.org.uk/labour-party-conference-backs-proportional-representation/ "In a historic vote, Labour Party Conference has voted for a manifesto commitment to proportional representation for general elections. This is a massive moment for democracy in the UK. Now all major parties, bar the Conservatives, are united on the need for electoral reform and committed to delivering a fair electoral system where every vote counts." This also worth a read in light of the results. I think I posted it before but relevant now. https://www.electoral-reform.org.uk...-two-parties-putting-democracy-on-the-agenda/
I actually don't think Cleverley is that bad. I mean he said himself Rwanda was batshit! It's a shame he won't go for party leadership due to his family commitments as he could probably unite the party in a centre-right ground.
Just seen that my area, Bournemouth West, has gone Red for the first time since 1931 if my research is correct (including boundary changes). Quite remarkable, especially knowing the area and the people in it. Like Tom, I normally do vote for the Tories, but for the first time I went with Labour. Time for a change for the better and maybe return some decorum back into politics after the antics of Boris & co.
