I read George Osborne's speech to Policy Exchange earlier. It started with a contrast between the Conservative leadership contest of two years ago against the non-contest for Labour now.
The result has been sewn up for Brown for some years now, but the lack of contest, as Obsorne makes clear still means we have no idea of what he stands for.
However, without exception the 6 candidates for the Deputy's job all stand for the same thing - a lurch to the left. Even arch Blairite Hazel Blears is saying we need more public ownership. As Obsorne says, 'Labour is retreating into its left-wing comfort zone'. Today's attempt by the Brown camp getting a slap-down in is clearly an effort close the lid on this genie, but as we saw with a succession of Tory leaders, once a party decides to leaves the centre ground in order to shore up its core support it is very difficult for a leader to resist or reverse.
If Labour continue along this path then it will surely lose the next election, however that won't be enough for a Conservative victory.
I believe that for that to be assured three things are required.
1- Clarity over policy. i.e. a local choice over schooling, should be a genuine local choice;
2- Professionalism in conveying policy. Messages should be clear and free of spin;
3- Unity of purpose. An end to division.
The past fortnight has been an example in how not to do the first- as long as the lesson is learnt, the party should be able to move forward. Today's appointment of a professional Director of Communications will help achieve the second. On the third the party has been broadly united since Howard took over the leadership, however the ease in which division came is worrying.
The Grammer School issue must be a one-off for the party to win next time.
