Quote:
|
Originally Posted by mkpdavies
I think that's basically what he was saying. A reverse take over, gaining an instant set of activists, but more to the point, removing the first obstacle such a break away group would need to. Having UKIP still getting in the way would be the last thing they wanted, especially if the platform of policies were similar.
|
I think you may well have put your finger on it there. That would indeed be a very strong incentive for any breakaway group of eurosceptic Tories to do a deal with UKIP.
If on the other hand their incentive for joining UKIP was to benefit from UKIP's activist base, media recognition etc, then they would be making a big mistake to try to rebrand UKIP as the 'Real Conservatives' or similar.
I agree with Stathan that UKIP appeals to a much wider group of people than just disillusioned Tories, and many Ukippers would be quite unhappy to suddenly find themselves in a "Tory Party MkII".
If a bunch of Tory eurosceptic MPs decide to join UKIP, we should welcome them with open arms - it would be a fantastic opportunity for UKIP. It could well be the big break we've been waiting for. Of course if there were many of them then they would be bound to gain an influence over UKIP policy and tactics. But Nigel would be wise be make clear to them in any initial discussions that UKIP's name, its 100% opposition to EU membership and its broadly libertarian orientation aren't negotiable.