EDP vs UKIP split off thread

[harryaldridge]

Originally Posted by cassie

In broad terms, the policy described by harryaldridge seems to meet the criterion of equity and fairness, but I think rjt has hit the really important nail right on the head. It is not sufficient having a reasonable policy if it does not command wide support. Even though one might regard another policy as inferior, it has to be considered if it meets most other criteria and is likely to attract increasing support.

As has been said many times before, we have to proceed from where we are, not from where we would like to be.

You should have submitted your thoughts to the policy group. Too late for this round, but send in your views and they will be considered as part of the ongoing policy development process.

[cassie]

Originally Posted by harryaldridge

You should have submitted your thoughts to the policy group. Too late for this round, but send in your views and they will be considered as part of the ongoing policy development process.

That's very good of you, but surely an integral part of any policy review is an assessment of the extent of likely support? Labour boobed in 1992 when the late John Smith (then Shadow Chancellor) advocated tax increases to pay for Public Services and, more recently, the Lib Dems with their 'shadow chancellor' Vince Cable (ex wiz economist with Shell) advocating an extra 10p on top rate to pay for Education.

Opinion Polls amongst voters in England consistently indicate support for a parliament & executive in England similar to that in Scotland of over 60%. The Sunday Telegraph, for example, commissioned a poll showing 68% last November. The Tories are teetering at the moment because they are acutely aware of the growing sense of injustice being felt in England which their supporters see no real sign of Cameron properly addressing. Naturally sufficient numbers of them will conclude at some point that, despite being born in London, Cameron's fundamental instincts are Scottish - so many of his utterances and some of the few commitments he has made suggest this. If the Conservatives adopt the policy of a separate English Parliament they will undoubtedly hole the EDP below the water line . . . and perhaps UKIP?

The next round may prove to be too late for UKIP. There seems to be much to be gained by UKIP radically shifting ground here, but then, I freely admit that I'm biassed. However, I repeat, if the policy is suitably modified I would probably be one of many others who would sign up!