North West test for the Rishi bounce
There isn’t going to be a General Election, but the North West will see a significant test of how large that Labour lead is. Jim reviews the challenges and opportunities for the new Prime Minister.
Tory
A dangerous crisis for both parties. A bitter inheritance.
The resignation of Liz Truss is given full analysis by Jim who also wonders why Labour are so keen on coming to power at this time of crisis.
Is the Tory party ungovernable?
Truss has gone, but who will take over? And does it matter? Sunak is hated by Boris’ crowd. Hunt is hated by the ERG. Braverman is hated by the electorate. Mordaunt – Meh. Frank McKenna suggests that the Conservative Party has become ungovernable.
The biggest barrier to PMs growth drive? – Tory MPs
Liz Truss wants to go for growth. But do her colleagues in the Conservative parliamentary party?
Never mind tax cuts… what about reform?
Why is the Tory leadership race dominated by an arms race on tax cuts? Jim argues that the candidates should be talking about reform of our collapsing public services. He also celebrates the opening of the Shakespeare North Playhouse in Prescot.
The rise of Red Wall Tories
Are northern Red Wall Tories about to replace the old guard as the MPs with clout in the Conservative Party? Jim poses the question in the aftermath of the Paterson Affair. He also reports on some great ideas for helping state school pupils suggested at a recent Downtown event.
Can Boris bounce back?
In his latest blog, Frank McKenna warns Boris Johnson that he must find a new way of operating if he is to maintain his position in 10 Downing Street.
The destabilising decade
In his last blog of the year, Jim looks back on the most turbulent decade ever in British politics. It began with Gordon Brown determined to make Labour the natural party of power and ended with it looking unlikely they will ever be in power again.
Predicted Tory victory could help Labour
The more likely a Tory victory becomes, the more chance Labour has of winning back voters who have deserted them in Leave seats, so argues Downtown boss Frank McKenna in his latest blog. He also slams the BBCs election campaign coverage.
The Party’s Over
As another high-profile MP quits the party and they slip 15 points behind the Tories in the polls, Frank Mckenna questions the future prospects of Labour in his latest blog.
PM heading for Brexit and Election win
Jim analyses the twin-track approach that could deliver a No Deal Brexit and a Tory majority before the candles go out on the Haloween pumpkins.
No Honeymoon for the clown
This week Jim expresses his concern that Remainers lack the courage of strategy to stop the UK leaving the EU. He also looks at the challenge next week’s by-election in Wales presents for the new Prime Minister.