Comments on: Lib Dems will rattle the cage of British politics

By: Richard Lung

Richard Lung — Sat, 22 Sep 2007 14:47:18 +0000

I gave up listening long ago to party leader conference speeches. However, this one was substantial and forceful with a leavening of wit.
I disagreed only about the EU, which of course is very important to the Lib Dems. One basic trouble there is that the EEC saw the maritime nations coming and cobbled together a common fisheries policy, both a conservation and a national disaster, to a country which cannot feed itself in a hungry world. This may yet see the UK leaving and perhaps should.
The other problem with the EU is a part of the general malaise with politicians. British party leaders may admit the lack of connection with the voters. But none of them will make much difference because they wont change the rules to serve the public interest where it conflicts with vested interests (like nuclear power which controls New Labour).

I merely re-state here without explanation two essential reforms: 1) Britain has half a dozen undemocratic voting methods where one democratic method would do, namely STV. 2) A second chamber, whether in Westminster or perhaps northern England, should proportionly represent all occupations for *Equality of Lobbying*, a modern democratic version of the historicly recognised role of the Lords.

By: J.W.Porteous

J.W.Porteous — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 08:47:46 +0000

We have suffered years of “spin” so I am not easily convinced by political drama.
This speech was different – a calm, earnest but passionate consideration of those aspects of modern life that trouble so many of us from all parts of the nation.
Congratulations Ming – and thank you. May I add one more comment? You are supported by several very able, like minded, colleagues. I admire them. So long as the Lib. Dem. team continues to work in this fashion you – and we – will win.

By: Francis Beswick

Francis Beswick — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 18:24:58 +0000

Ming’s speech reminded me of why I joined the old Liberal party many years ago and why I am still a Liberal Democrat. I listened to Liberal m.ps speaking and realized that they were the ones who valued both liberty and equality and that they tackled the issues in a reasoned, tolerant and humane way. Ming is true to the great traditions of our party. He spoke with power, wit and conviction. Carry on Ming, you are treading the right path. Brtitian needs politicians who can rise above the soundbite to speak with gravitas about the great issues of the day.

By: Alex Nearney

Alex Nearney — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:56:10 +0000

An excellent speech. At last we see a leader with gravitas and a sincere, statesman-like approach. I am now seriously considering joining the Liberal Democrats – I want a leader (and PM) who is honest and unafraid to voice opinions which may not be in the mainstream e.g. on the Iraq war, but which he feels are for the good of the country as a whole. The age issue is ridiculous and illustrates exactly what is wrong with British politics at this time – style over substance (excuse the cliche but it’s apt). I have been impressed for the past few years by Sir M when he has appeared on programmes such as Question Time and I think he is an excellent choice for leader and hopefully Prime Minister one day.

By: Lawrence Hanney

Lawrence Hanney — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:45:35 +0000

WELL SAID Ming! NOW we should aim to use the skills and knowledge of ALL libdems who want to contribute up to their ability, to make these things happen!

By: sanbikinoraion

sanbikinoraion — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 14:56:21 +0000

Pity there was no mention of the Iraqi employees there, amongst all the talk about Iraq.