You really know you are unpopular when people leave a party because of your presence. However, our illustrious leader doesn't seem to think so, and desperately clings to his post despite a batch of resignations over his refusal to announce the date he intends to step down as PM. The resignations follow the publication of a letter from back-benchers demanding to know said date and stating that in the opinion of signatories his evasiveness is damaging both the Labour party and the credibility of the government. Mr Blair has responded by stating that his critics are 'disloyal, discourteous and wrong'. The truth is they are more in touch with popular opinion (about the PM) than he is.
Blair no longer has the huge level of public support that he enjoyed in the late 90s. His 'friendship' with the president of the US has damaged his reputation beyond repair. In addition some of his more recent policies have left the public feeling that he has become too big for his boots. He may believe we still see him as some kind of golden boy capable of rectifying the worst mistakes of Tory policy, a kind of political Alan Shearer, talented, able, trustworthy and reliable, but we don't. Smarmy and insincere are the words I hear most often used to describe him. Sadly, unlike Alan Shearer, Mr Blair does not seem to realise that his time is up, and that he should bow out gracefully. Instead he clings to power and deludes himself that deep down we all really like him, that he is still the man of the people he once was.
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5 comments:
I'm reminded of when Nasser Hussain retired from Test cricket. He scored a match winning 100 and went with people asking why! as opposed to when!!
Of course the cynic in me says that Blair has done what he wants. Stopped Brown and ensured a Blairite succession - Cameron
that said have Labour learnt anything? reminds me of the last time.
"that said have Labour learnt anything? reminds me of the last time."
I agree. I know they try to play down the idea of a split in the party, but there is one. On one hand you have Tory-ite Blair, and on the other socialist Brown. If they keep airing their differences in public the only beneficiaries will be the Tories.
I also agree that Blair is prolonging his time as PM to antagonise Brown and also leave him little chance (before the election) to make an impression in the job himself. It's quite pathetic, really he should be doing what is best for the country (he always claims he does) instead of massaging his own ego.
kate i am so with you- remember that tape that the beeb showed a few months back from the G8? Didn't that just say it all really. Some "Special relationship" eh? Pippa. Here's an interesting thought...if he is the next prime minister how will brown interact with GW?
Hmm, it would be interesting to see the relationship between Brown and Bush. I get the feeling he isn't poodle material. Hopefully, (assuming he is elected as leader) he will distance himself from Bush somewhat while still maintaining a friendly relationship with the US generally.
The only thing Tony Blair could learn from Alan Shearer is how to elbow opponents in the face and get away with it.
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