Monday, July 16, 2007
A matter of perspective
This morning's Western Mail contains overwhelming proof that our political perspective is determined by our own background and experiences, with an article detailing Sir Eric Howell's view that the Conservative Assembly Group are, on some issues, to the left of the Labour Party.
He argues that Tory AMs have gone native and are more interested in maintaining their lucrative positions than in fighting for mainstream Conservative values.
It may well be that Sir Eric's view of events have been coloured by his own expulsion from the Conservative Party for threatening to support an independent candidate in Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire, however that should not prevent a rational evaluation of his views.
My impression for what it is worth is that now that the Tories do not have to appear so moderate in the hope of getting a rainbow coalition, then they will revert to type. Already, they have started to advocate more PFI deals as the solution to many of Wales' problems, whilst their new Education Spokesperson has even hinted at a re-evaluation of their opposition to top-up fees in Wales.
Expect more of this as the new Government establishes itself and the Conservatives adjust to their own role as lead opposition party.
He argues that Tory AMs have gone native and are more interested in maintaining their lucrative positions than in fighting for mainstream Conservative values.
It may well be that Sir Eric's view of events have been coloured by his own expulsion from the Conservative Party for threatening to support an independent candidate in Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire, however that should not prevent a rational evaluation of his views.
My impression for what it is worth is that now that the Tories do not have to appear so moderate in the hope of getting a rainbow coalition, then they will revert to type. Already, they have started to advocate more PFI deals as the solution to many of Wales' problems, whilst their new Education Spokesperson has even hinted at a re-evaluation of their opposition to top-up fees in Wales.
Expect more of this as the new Government establishes itself and the Conservatives adjust to their own role as lead opposition party.
