The Disaffected

Despite returning Liberals to (the fringes of power) for the first time in the best part of a century some liberal Liberals are unhappy at what they view as a sell-out of the fundamental principles on which their party was founded.

Many disaffected grass roots liberals (small 'l') are flocking to join Labour, now seen as the only progressive force in British politics. Labour party sees record surge in membership (Guardian, 13 May 2010).

Hugely popular former Liberal leader Charles Kennedy, the most successful of recent times in terms of seats, refused to back the coalition. Of the surprising partnership, Mr Kennedy says: "Certainly, they drive a strategic coach and horses through the long-nurtured 'realignment of the centre-left' to which leaders in the Liberal tradition, this one included, have all subscribed since the Jo Grimond era... It is hardly surprising that, for some of us at least, our political compass currently feels confused."Charles Kennedy refused to back Lib Dem-Tory pact (BBC News, 16 May 2010).

Research by the Fabian Society suggests the ill-matched coalition is an electoral gift for Labour (Lib-Tory cooperation is an ‘electoral gift’ to Labour, says report).

It is thus essential Labour makes the right choice to replace Gordon Brown in its upcoming leadership contest in order to once again offer Britain stable and progressive government.