all new Phil wrote:I think it's fair to say that the result is less a win for the Conservatives and more a huge loss for Labour, and proves the point I've continuously made that there just isn't the appetite for a Labour government with the party in its current state. To lose seats after 5 years of "Tory cuts" is an absolute disgrace.
I don't see a way back for Labour. They can't argue against austerity, because that is exactly what they were proposing. The economy is improving, and is showing all the signs of continuing to do so. They've backed themselves into a corner, unable to argue against cuts for fear of being branded irresponsible.
I'd love for the left to throw their weight behind the Greens now. Labour is finished.
So there's a Labour party, er, party this evening in Scotland. I'm told that they intend to immediately move on and discuss 2016.
Not sure what to make of it. I have spent today watching party stalwarts in the south saying they failed to deliver their message. I just don't think they had one - or rather - delivering a diluted tory message was unconvincing in the south and unpalatable in the north.
I want them to be a party that stands for something, hell or high water. Not all SNP policies are supported by all the SNP voters, but they are delivered with certitude - not about outcomes necessarily but about the need to try or the motivation of common good behind them. I don't expect all things to work or all promises can be delivered; but I feel there's an agenda with my party of choice that I can stand by. Labour observed false flags about immigrants and benefits cheats and tried to out-tory the tories. What's the fucking point in that?
So, as diametrically opposed as I am to the Conservatives I have to say congratulations on your victory. Try and do as little harm as you can, but by Christ we will be watching.
If nothing else, as the third party in Westminster, the SNP get two questions a week at PMQs. That should be good viewing.