Leaders Debate number 2 last night. Not riveting, these politicians can talk, but that’s what they do. Agree with Gordon that what they say is more important than how they look. Although you could add will they do what they say. Only Gordon has a history in office and many might say things never seem quite as advertised.
Then there is good old Dave standing as the person to bring change. There isn’t a massive message though, seems to be more a change from Gordon. Big Society was one but didn’t get much airing. Being in Europe but not a pawn of Europe seemed to be a theme although the European grouping that Dave has joined seems a bit unknown. Dave is looking a gentler leader than those of old and he needs to be as things have moved on a long way in the last 30 years in terms of care, sexuality, race and expectation.
Nick as new boy on the block, looks sincere and stands his ground. His policies seem a change but it set me thinking of the lyrics to Imagine by John Lennon. Imagine there’s no countries, it isn’t hard to do. Nick has no religion too. You may say that I’m a dreamer but I’m not the only one. Their policies are left of the Labour Party and Gordons call to ‘get real’ on nuclear power and defence seemed a good point. Nick also likes saying buying more Eurofighters is a waste of money and that’s before his defence review, although the other parties haven’t played their hand on this one.
When it comes to putting an X in the box what actually happens might be a surprise. Protesting is one thing, but many might think 5 years of a similar government isn’t what was really wanted. There is a big question that a vote for Nick Clegg is a vote for Gordon Brown to continue as PM. Although the LibDems could say no partnership while Mr Brown is the leader, no-one has said that. He could continue as a minority leader and the SNP / PC and others might help it. Then again SNP v Labour could cost Labour a lot in Scotland, or maybe not. The Conservatives seem to be buffeted on conflicting currents relating to other parties and need to come forward with a big message to get back above it. Interesting couple of weeks ahead, so surprise or no surprise won’t be that surprising.