Latest editorial
NO-ONE will be surprised that the coroner’s verdict on the Liberal Democrat election wipeout singles out that party’s infamous U-turn on tuition fees.
That it “significantly damaged our reputation and credibility” to vote to triple the cost of a university education after their “read my lips” promise not to raise fees is a no-brainer.
Even the excuse that this was a compromise forced on the party by coalition held no water, since Liberal Democrat policy was actually to abolish tuition fees — the pledge at the very least not to raise them was made for the specific eventuality of coalition with either Labour or the Conservatives.
A Cabinet clear-out and an apparent rejection of neoliberal orthodoxy have created fresh political momentum, but can entrenched institutional power be overcome by the new PM, wonders ANDREW MURRAY
JOHN McINALLY sees little chance of change at Westminster, and calls on the left to get serious about building a real alternative
Deep disillusionment with the Westminster cross-party consensus means rupture with the status quo is on the cards – bringing not only opportunities but also dangers, says NICK WRIGHT