Morning:
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- Gordon Brown: Thank you and goodbye
- Labour: Ed Miliband emerges as dark horse for leader
- US: Obama congratulates PM Cameron
- Deputy PM: Nick Clegg hails 'new kind of government'
- Brown: Former PM set to quit political scene
- Labour: Alan Johnson backs David Miliband
- Comment: Today's lesson - don't underestimate Mr Clegg
- Comment: Has Cameron paid too high a price for power?
- Commentary: Dave and Nick keep date with destiny at Downing Street
- Policy: Landmark deal ranging from tax to Trident on seven sheets of A4
- ES Comment: Lib-Con government: now for the hard part
- Sketch: Calm after the Downing Street storm
Prime Minister David Cameron today promised “new politics” to tackle Britain's problems as he stood shoulder-to-shoulder with Nick Clegg in the Downing Street garden.
“We have a shared agenda and a shared resolve to tackle the challenges our country faces,” said Britain's new leader in his first press conference.
The new Deputy Prime Minister and leader of the Liberal Democrats added: “Until today we were rivals and now we are colleagues. And that says a lot about the scale of the new politics which is now beginning to unfold.
“This is what the new politics looks like.”
On a lovely sunny spring day, in the unreal atmosphere of a country wedding, the optimism of the two young men — both are 43 — was infectious.
Yet there were tiny glimpses on a momentous day of the little rivalries or tensions that could undermine it.
The most hilarious came when someone asked if Mr Cameron regretted once responding “Nick Clegg!” when asked for his favourite joke.
“Did you?” interjected Mr Clegg.
Flummoxed, Mr Cameron turned with a look of excruciating embarrassment, and admitted: “I'm afraid I did.” He then called “come back!” as his new deputy pretended to walk out.
But the first price of the new politics is the scrapping of the Tory pledge to stop the rise in National Insurance for workers, which would have saved £170 on average per year. That money will now go on a “significant” tax break for the low paid which was in the Lib-Dem manifesto.
In effect, millions of workers will be paying higher direct taxation because Mr Cameron has gone into coalition, though the low paid may end up being more lgihtly taxed. Capital gains tax will also rise, hitting second homes.
At Downing Street the pair's youth, optimism and undeniable glamour echoed the Kennedy brothers in the Sixties. But the challenges that greeted them today are dauntingly modern and grim.
The worst unemployment figures since 1996 came out this morning, just as Mr Cameron was struggling with forming his first Cabinet, a complex balancing act to combine the best talents of the two parties.
The question that all Whitehall and Westminster was asking was whether the coalition and its leaders have the strength to cope with the pressure.
Before today's joint press conference, Mr Cameron opened the door of No10 to welcome his deputy himself.
After chatting and posing on the doorstep, they turned inside and Mr Cameron put his right hand on his colleague's back in a paternal manner, making clear he was in charge. Instantly, Mr Clegg — who is just three months younger — reacted by putting his own left hand on Mr Cameron's shoulder, signalling that he regards himself as a partner and not a junior.
The relaxed way they handled tricky questions about such issues as by-elections (they joked they could share a car), and Prime Minister's Questions (Mr Cameron said he would go abroad a lot to let Mr Clegg stand in) suggested they were genuinely at ease with each other.
They stressed their “common purpose” while the Tory leader said he had felt pleased when he woke up and felt he had embarked on a stronger form of government suitable for the times.
“It will be an administration united behind three key principles: freedom, fairness and responsibility,” he said.
“And it will be an administration united behind one key purpose and that is to give our country the strong and stable and determined leadership that we need for the long-term.”
The appointment of Liberal Democrats to every part of Whitehall was “a sign of the strength and depth of the coalition and our sincere determination to work together”.
Mr Clegg enthused: “This is a new government, and it's a new kind of government.”
He admitted there would be some “bumps and scrapes” along the way but said: “This is a government that will last despite those differences because we are united by a common purpose.”
George Osborne and William Hague were the first Cabinet appointments to be confirmed, as Chancellor and Foreign Secretary.
The new Chancellor — the youngest since Winston Churchill's father in 1886 — turned up at the Treasury saying “now is the time to roll up the sleeves”.
Theresa May is the new Home Secretary, giving one of the big jobs to a woman in a male-dominated Cabinet. Ken Clarke becomes Justice Secretary and Lord Chancellor, his extra status reflecting the importance to the Lib-Dems of having his reassuringly Euro-friendly presence in the Cabinet.
The Lib-Dems were rewarded with five Cabinet seats, including Vince Cable as Business Secretary, Chris Huhne as Climate Change and Environment, and Danny Alexander for Scotland. David Laws becomes Chief Secretary to the Treasury.
In another sign of possible tensions, it was rumoured that Mr Clegg had demanded a veto over the fate of his Lib-Dems in future reshuffles. There could be Lib-Dem ministers in every department, meaning half of their 57 MPs will have government jobs — certain to arouse envy among Tories.
Mr Cameron fielded more congratulatory phone calls from world leaders today. They included Premier Wen of China, President Sarkozy of France, who will now visit the UK for talks on June 18, Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd and Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.
In one of his first acts as Premier, he announced the establishment of a National Security Council, to oversee all aspects of Britain's security. It will be headed by Sir Peter Ricketts, the permanent secretary at the Foreign Office, who was appointed to a new post of National Security Adviser.
Meanwhile, helicopters circled overhead throughout the morning, only heightening the anticipation of the day's announcements, while members of the public gathered around the heavily guarded gates to Downing Street. In a mark of the historic coalition, Tory Andrew Lansley shook hands with Mr Cable as they met on the step.
Tory heavyweight Mr Clarke, who arrived in his trademark grey suit and brown suede shoes, drew light-hearted boos when he refused to pose outside No 10. When asked how it felt to be back he replied: “Seems familiar.”
A van arrived at the back entrance with the Cameron family effects to go into their apartment “above the shop”. Through the front came a string of aides, special advisers and spin doctors.
In his own unique style Boris Johnson welcomed the “fantastic coalition”, telling the Standard: “The British people, in their infinite wisdom, have taken a palette of political colours and produced something new and special. David Cameron's immense talents and character have given us a dynamic crossbreed between a bulldog and a chihuahua.”
Mr Hague said: “There are many things that the Lib-Dems have had to swallow that are very difficult for them. There will be people in both parties who will quietly wish it hadn't happened.”
Reader views (64)
Well there you have it, the main points that the people wanted such as keeping public services and not implementing cuts on them, coupled with a new referendum for Parliament, MPs and Governments to make them more accountable, these were being put forward by both Labour and Liberal, as part of their manifesto
How does this vote by two thirds of the electorate get forgotten and doesn’t resolve with the two parties with the most votes forming a coalition government This being Labour and Conservatives, but concludes with the minority Liberals and the majority Conservative forming the government. Surely the principles of each parties manifesto should have counted for something? After all this is what the people were voting for, so at least two thirds of the electorate were in favour of the parties that were similar with their manifestos
None of the parties have had the support of a majority of the people within the UK. If any coalition government were to have been formed it should have been of all parties working for the benefit of the people with a referendum and a new people’s constitution. Now what do we have? Once again the people of the country are not truly represented
- Radfax, London England UK, 13/05/2010 13:56
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As the late Blanch Hunt would have said "You wait nothing good will come of this that look like a couple of Hippies going to a carnival".
On yesterdays Daily Politics Nick Robinson mentioned that Clegg went into a panic when he heard that Brown had resigned before his party had agreed to this. No doubt he was hoping that if they went against he would then join Brown in a rainbow coalition. Just goes to show whos interest he really serves.
Just think if Cameron falls under the proverbial bus Clegg will become Prime Minister something I am sure all Tory MPs will agree to ..
While Brown left with dignity having accepted he lost the election these couple of loosers imagine that they have won -- "You can fool some of the people some of the time, and most of the people some of the time but you cant fool all of the people all of the time!!
Welcolm to the Only Fools and Horses government - Anyone want to buy some seats in parliament.
- Melvyn Windebank, Canvey Island, Essex, 13/05/2010 12:16
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In England I found the people to be ok, if I found one that spoke English of course, many seemed to be from other countries...... I tried a beer called London Pride, which was good, at the Earl's Court Tavern. In Scotland after driving up from London, it was however quite different, the folks seemed friendly, perhaps because I was NOT English, but from 'down under.' They also had a good sense of humour, something about a battle at Bannockburn and England losing seemed to make them happy. I came away with the impression that many of them would like to see a re run of that somehow. My GG Grandfather in Lincolnshire, gazed into his crystal ball in 1853 and saw 'EU' and 'ELECTION 2010' turned to his wife and said, 'let's bugger off to AUSTRALIA'
- Richard Merrell, Wentworth Falls, NSW Australia, 13/05/2010 01:28
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W.Palmer, Vancouver, Canada, 12/05/2010 17:42
This 70 year old remembers Margaret Thatcher only too well , I don't think you do ;she is why 'There are huge areas of the UK that are populated by people who have never worked.'
- chrism, morbihan,france, 12/05/2010 23:40
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It's taken a day for me to get over the shock of Nick but, was worried that he'd taken over, no longer afraid as I've every faith, David would take any title to help to improve this country!
Both did well at the joint speach today! They're going to impress us even more, both teams, just let them surface in 2 years time, hope they manage to break off and have fun!
George Osborne is very good! easy to follow!
Switching back to music, hope I don't now prefer following politics to
music!
Good Luck Guys, All! (no time to check)
- M, London, 12/05/2010 21:08
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Democracy cons all of the people all of the time it is just a game of repetition with varying lengths of hoodwinking.
- brian williams, barry wales, 12/05/2010 21:05
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Sorry Spirit Leveller I read what you posted, and you seem confused. You seem to be of the misapprehension that because you said something it must be true. typing "it was, without doubt..." does not turn fiction into fact.
but thanks for repeating that nonsense a second time, it added nothing.
- scotty, london, 12/05/2010 18:51
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If the new coalition government keeps its promises on civil liberties, it'll be the best thing that's happened in Britain for years!
- Mike, Cardiff UK, 12/05/2010 18:36
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I don't think I have seen a country so bitter towards their government. This alliance I don't think will last long but if there can be signs of rebuilding I suspect it may endure.
There are huge areas of the UK that are populated by people who have never worked nor ever intend to. That has to be addressed. The UK social system is extremely generous. That is unsustainable. I think that any government will opt to raise taxes to pay for the largess rather than dare to dismantle it. That will just burden an already grossly overtaxed country even further.
Why are jobs exported to the Far East, because they are cheaper and more productive there. When over 50% of your income goes to tax, products can be manufactured and shipped for far less.
Business and industry will be further ravaged as the salaries will have to rise to keep pace with the government induced inflation.
When I come home I am always amazed at the cost of living here, that is set to radically increase. Socialism has a very high cost. Look what it has cost Greece, the UK is not far behind.
Labour, Conservative, or Liberal I don't think any would really tackle the daunting task of dismantling it and the public outcry that would ensue.
Remember Mrs Thatcher.
- W.Palmer, Vancouver, Canada, 12/05/2010 17:42
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Scotty, you must have read the wrong post. Here's what I wrote; please re-read carefully (including the big words):
"It was, without doubt, the Conservative administrations of the 1970s, 80s, and 90s that created the deeply unfair circumstances I talk of - most notably through their poor 'supply-side' policies, failure to employ taxation of the wealthy as an appropriate fiscal policy measure, and blind faith in specialisation (rather than diversification). My only criticism of the Labour administrations of 1997-2010 is that we largely failed to alter this destructive economic trajectory".
Absolute poverty has fallen massively under the Labour Party but its failure to deal with excessive pay through progressive taxation had led to further, unacceptable increases in relative poverty, which is the major progenitor of social failure in the UK.
Please explain to me how a Con-Lib Coalition will reduce relative poverty? This can only be achieved through a radical and, therefore, 'un-Conservative' series of policy measures.
I hope you haven't got any children because, if you have, you've just kissed goodbye to equality of opportunity for them.
- Spirit Leveller, London, 12/05/2010 17:07
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what a joke jb's comments are. he has obviously not read all the announcements, seen the policies or understood who is in the cabinet.
we most certainly DO NOT have a LibDem government. anyone who says that is a disgruntled labour supporter trying to cause mischief.
To say Cameron has sold out his country, his party and his voters is a total distortion of the truth and is the result of an extremely jealous person!
- tony, london uk, 12/05/2010 16:48
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Let's not forget Michael Gove. He has been a real star in all this: classy, composed, intelligent. He deserves a very very fine post.
- Michaella, London UK, 12/05/2010 16:46
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Before I reach State Pension Age I live off investment income (investments built up over 38yrs) and a modest rental income from a bunglow my Dad left to me a few years ago. Before the Lib-Dems had the power of persuasion I would have paid 18%CGT if I drew down on my investments or decided to sell the bungalow. Now I will pay 36%CGT. NO Mention of doubling CGT was made in any Parties Manifesto? I have acted prudently and will now lose 36% of what I have built upover the years and what my Dad bought out of his taxed income.
To me this is akin to punishing the retired as it is like doubling the 22% Rate of Income Tax! Both should be totally unacceptable to Parties which claim fairness and Social Justice. I actually Voted Lib-Dem but their increasing support for Europe and the Euro leaves me trembling. They dropped their plans for a Local Income-Tax to replace the unjust Council Tax;- I a single early-retired person pay 75% of what my neighbours pay when they have two "Executive" salaries going into their household. Is the ludicrous Mansion Tax still on the cards? (imposed despite actual income)! As they say some power corrups and I fear that after Five years we will have three parties scabbling for votes in an unseemly fashion? Bankers went bust for looking for the quick buck today and not for long term profit. Would it not be nice if we could be encouraged to save and invest for the long term and NOT to spend-spend-spend Today so that we can claim benefts Tomorrow?
- fuzzylogic, Billericay, 12/05/2010 16:40
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Before I reach State Pension Age I live off investment income (investments built up over 38yrs) and a modest rental income from a bunglow my Dad left to me a few years ago. Before the Lib-Dems had the power of persuasion I would have paid 18%CGT if I drew down on my investments or decided to sell the bungalow. Now I will pay 36%CGT. NO Mention of doubling CGT was made in any Parties Manifesto? I have acted prudently and will now lose 36% of what I have built upover the years and what my Dad bought out of his taxed income.
To me this is akin to punishing the retired as it is like doubling the 22% Rate of Income Tax! Both should be totally unacceptable to Parties which claim fairness and Social Justice. I actually Voted Lib-Dem but their increasing support for Europe and the Euro leaves me trembling. They dropped their plans for a Local Income-Tax to replace the unjust Council Tax;- I a single early-retired person pay 75% of what my neighbours pay when they have two "Executive" salaries going into their household. Is the ludicrous Mansion Tax still on the cards? (imposed despite actual income)! As they say some power corrups and I fear that after Five years we will have three parties scabbling for votes in an unseemly fashion? Bankers went bust for looking for the quick buck today and not for long term profit. Would it not be nice if we could be encouraged to save and invest for the long term and NOT to spend-spend-spend Today so that we can claim benefts Tomorrow?
- fuzzylogic, Billericay, 12/05/2010 16:37
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Two parties,with policies worlds apart,telling us how great they are together in harmony.Sounds like the same old political rot we have became used to.
- dave, london, 12/05/2010 16:35
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What a joke the ConDems are. Take it any way you like but whether you like it or not, we now have a LIB government with Cleggy in charge. He and he alone, is the most powerful person in Britain tiday. Cammy is just a joke puppet with Cleggy pulling ALL the strings. You know I'm right. Cammy sold out and boy oh boy, what a price he has paid. He sold out his country, his party and his voters. Shame on this cowardly weakling. What a laughing stock we are.
- jb, sussex, 12/05/2010 16:23
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Is it a Labour idea to sell PL football clubs to Arabs?
- Daph walker, l, 12/05/2010 15:51
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Spirit Leveller,
I am afraid all the lefty propaganda has gone to your head.
The greatest increase in the divide between rich and poor occurred under the last labour government.
you might need a more modern text!
- scotty, london, 12/05/2010 15:37
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They both came across very well, with humour and a vigorous determination to serve the country. Whether it will last is another thing, but good to see that both men's intentions are purposely aligned.
Labour will of course be stronger in opposition, as is always the case, but they lost a lot of voters, and it will be interesting to see the clashes at PMQ.
- Kris, London, 12/05/2010 15:25
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Just listened to Cameron's speech, He's really trying to do the best!
I do think though we've managed to get good Prime Minister!
Good Luck both!
- M, London, 12/05/2010 14:50
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@ - Margy, London, 12/05/2010 14:39
Thanks for your analysis, but it was mediocre and politically slanted.
The point is that the markets have hardly been inspired but the new Government, the markets are not showing any sentiment whatsoever.
- Ralph, London, 12/05/2010 14:47
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Just watching the joint press conference.
I thought Clegg was better, looks like he is raising the game and I'm not sure Cameron can keep up.
- Jamie, London, 12/05/2010 14:41
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Ralph, London, 12/05/2010 13:57
The pound has been collapsing for ages due to Brown's trashing of our economy. Who wants to buy british debt when no one has a clue how we are going to pay it all back? Our triple AAA credit rating has been shaky for a while now - absolutely nothing to do with Cameron or Clegg. They have to try and rebuild confidence in our economy - a very difficult task under the circumstances left by the out going labour government.
- Margy, London, 12/05/2010 14:39
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Some people seem to have selective short memories today; and some seem to have old axes to wield as well.
At least we have got rid of Mandelson; the Svengali of New Labour politicians, and a control freak of the highest order etc.
My memory is long; and I remember Thatcher as well as Blair and Brown, and I speak as an ex Labour voter etc.
But you sometimes have to be cruel to be kind; and in that light, whoever won would still have to be cruel in order to be kind correcting our Nations mountain of debt etc.
I personally think that Cameron and Clegg have the guts to sort out the countries huge debts as quick as possible; and being a coalition government, they will have to listen to each other, or fail etc.
Cameron could change the Tory Party thinking for-ever; if he is his own man; just as Mandelson changed the Labour Party for-ever being the way he was etc.
I personally think this election and its results, will in time prove better for the Nation than New Labour or Old style Tory Party politics ever did etc.
Time will tell; so be patient everyone; and do not expect a free ride or others to support you etc; it is time for some tough love in the UK.
Somehow I feel better this morning than at this time last week; I now see some hope, where there was none?
Good Luck England; we can do anything if we try harder.
For you soft limp wristed wimps; go home to your mothers, because it’s a hard world out there on your own.
- mickinlondon, london, 12/05/2010 14:37
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We live in interesting times. I for one, hope the coalition provides stable and decisive government. However in reality I give this coalition 12-18 months before at least 18 Lib Dem MP's become exasperated at Conservative right wing policy implementation to technically force a vote in the Commons of no confidence in the coalition government.
Rejoicing Conservatives beware - Labour in opposition to a Con/Lib Dem coalition government is likely to become much stronger with the potentially large scale defection of disillusioned Lib Dems (it has already started). That election in 12-18 months time is likely to be more interesting than the one passed.
- Paul, London, England, 12/05/2010 14:24
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The yellow (bellied) Tories are back; peasants know your place!
yep, a very true statement. Now lets all wait for the social unrest the rich white Tory boys and girls are going to create with their divisive politics. And to all you Lib Dem voters: hey, any time i can push you lot off a cliff with no parachute, please let me know as I will do so with pleasure. Thanks for nothing you lot! And before you smug Tories ask, yes i am bitter and upset!! I never thought people of this country had such short memories . Still when the stuff hits the fan (in about 6 months time) i can at least say i made an effort to stop it.
Now let me go off and lie down -
- KH, London UK, 12/05/2010 14:19
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I'm very intrigued by all of this. There were several fundamental differences betweent the Lib Dems and the Tories, like immigration. I wonder how this partnership will evolve and who will be doing the majority of the compromising. This has been pretty much a one way ticket to power for Neil Clegg - but his voters did not vote for compromise did they?
Yet again we have another unelected Prime Minister. While I wish the new government well, we seriously need to re-evaluate the constitution so that the outcome of such incidents is at least in line with the intention of the voter.
- Joe, London, 12/05/2010 14:16
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I voted for Cs because they would look at immigration, we are already liberal! Ask the public. I did not vote for Nick to hijack this issue!
Can we have a broadcast soon highlighting Nicks ideas for Immigration, also include the problems we're facing. I can guarantee you this, you'll be hearing from the great British Public!
We voted for the conservatives because some things were not negotiable with Nick! (we didn't plan Nick!) Not the immediate issue but it's one which I listed, always new this would be covered naturally by the tories!
Cs have already made concessions!
I'm mixed ethnicity and first generation
- M, London, 12/05/2010 14:15
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Oh don't kid yourselves chaps and chavs..the only reason why Clegg made a deal with the CON servatives is because he wanted his foot inside number 10.
The Lib-Dems risk losing all their new voters now he has sided in with Cameron..I will be one of them!
As for Cameron...
Decrease the national insurance increase for the poorer earner?? Hmmm..so that means things will be the same for us and better for the rich.
- Anon, London, 12/05/2010 14:06
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@ - Kris, London, 12/05/2010 13:46
Your definition of considerably is obviously not the dictionary definition.
However the German index must be pleased because by your definition the German index has gone through the roof, up by full 1%.
What's your thoughts on the pound, falling through the floor?
- Ralph, London, 12/05/2010 13:57
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No rhetoric, no empty promises, no self serving please Gentlemen (and Ladies, apologies Ms May !) - just do something positive for my country please - Thank you !!!
- Andy Woodhead, London, ENGLAND, 12/05/2010 13:47
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@Ralph, London, 12/05/2010 13:29
FTSE 100 up 30 points today, FTSE 250 up 120 points, looking at the indices right now...
Matchpoint Margy.
- Kris, London, 12/05/2010 13:46
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@ - Margy, London, 12/05/2010 12:49
"Well the FTSE 100 and 250 have both considerably shot up this morning"
No they haven't but
I wasn't making a party political point and you appear to be amazingly sensitive, how to get by on a daily basis.
- Ralph, London, 12/05/2010 13:29
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No doubt just a coincidence, but the photograph of Messrs Cameron and Clegg shaking hands reminds me of the famous photograph of Neville Chamberlain at the airport just returned from Munich with a piece of paper in his hands. Chamberlain was greeted as "good old Neville" and very popular for a while too. Events dear boy, events!
- Super Mac, UK, 12/05/2010 13:24
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Margy, the greatest cause of social unrest and the largest progenitor of the negative social phenomena that afflicts our society is the result of the deeply inequitable economic infrastructure that we employ. I suggest you read The Spirit Level by Richard Wilkinson and Kate Pickett, which provides all the quantitative and qualitative data to support this view that you could possibly hope for.
It was, without doubt, the Conservative administrations of the 1970s, 80s, and 90s that created the deeply unfair circumstances I talk of - most notably through their poor 'supply-side' policies, failure to employ taxation of the wealthy as an appropriate fiscal policy measure, and blind faith in specialisation (rather than diversification). My only criticism of the Labour administrations of 1997-2010 is that we largely failed to alter this destructive economic trajectory.
With respect to your "bad loser" accusation, I'm afraid you couldn't more wrong. Yes, I have strong, socialist views but I'm also a democrat and therefore accept the current government as legitimate.
The people spoke - inconclusively - and now we have a Lib/Con coalition. I have my own views, which I'm entitled to, about how successful that coalition will be. However, rather than being bitter, I'm delighted at the prospect of forming a strong, dynamic opposition that is, even now, on the road back to victory.
- Spirit Leveller, London, 12/05/2010 12:57
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Ralph, London, 12/05/2010 12:41
Well the FTSE 100 and 250 have both considerably shot up this morning - perhaps your information came via the BBC who are not dealing very well with their labour friends losing the election. I have never heard so much negative reporting as I have on the Beeb this morning - they are not at all happy.
- Margy, London, 12/05/2010 12:49
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I was watching Sky news this morning and they had the stock market ticket in the background.
I think they were anticipating a surge in the market, but it went down by 1%.
It seems that the markets weren't too bothered, no joy in the City, although in fairness government bonds were trading better, following the uncertainty.
- Ralph, London, 12/05/2010 12:41
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Don't generalise, Sue. You're sounding as bitter as the Labourites and it does nobody any good. We're all in this together.
Mr Cameron and Mr Clegg are rising above the rabble and I, for one, will give them the benefit of the doubt to get on and do what needs to be done.
Good Luck to them both and the Coalition cabinet.
- Daphne, London, UK, 12/05/2010 12:30
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Why are people so negative? Give the guys a chance!I am sure they will do much better than the ones in the Blair era . They have the power, the knowledge and the support of professionals and businessmen.
- Michaella, London UK, 12/05/2010 12:17
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MICHAEL GOVES, YOU'RE ALREADY A NAME THAT IS KNOWN IN MY IMMEDIATE AND WIDER CIRCLE, HOPE YOU CHOOSE THIS EDUCATION SECRETARY ROLE FOR US!
- M, Harris, 12/05/2010 12:14
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@Spirit Leveller, London, 12/05/2010 11:14
Two Labour governments in 20 years, two trashed economies in 20 years says Margy is correct and you are talking out of your bitter behind.
I do hope you enjoy Tory rule, it makes us so happy that you have taken it so well. You and your Labour ilk would have this country destroyed and on it's knees, and for that you should never govern again.
- Kris, London, 12/05/2010 12:13
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David Cameron to Nick Clegg - "Yes or No Nick, what do you think?"
Nick - "Emmmmmmmmmm, Yes, er. . . . No, er . . . . Yes, er. . . . No, er. . . . maybe, . . . better give me two weeks to consult with the rest of the Lib Dems, we are a party that likes to sit on the fence and prevaricate after all"
- Eoin McGreeghan, Derry, NI, 12/05/2010 12:12
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James, London, 12/05/2010 12:03
Thank you James for demonstrating that what I wrote was perfectly correct.
I'm glad it made you laugh - that's all I expect from a bad embittered loser! Here is a snippet from my 'laughable' message from which you could learn quite a lot. The truth hurts doesn't it........
"Find some backbone labourites and look up the meaning of 'fair play' and humility. You could learn a lot. I hope we never again see a labour government in power....they always trash the economy and cause social unrest with their unworkable and utopian policies. Hopefully, now is the time for some intelligent government".
- Margy, London, 12/05/2010 12:12
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Well the Devil smiling & Clegg got the power he craved for by selling his beliefs. It will be of course a Honeymoon period & everyone is saying nice words…but? Ah the but?
@ Margy
I hope you had good laugh at your own comment, because I sure did!....thank u!
- James, London, 12/05/2010 12:03
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i thought i had seen everything when i seen that fool brown dragging his family behind him leaving downing street like he had been evicted for not paying his rent has he got no shame or was it a camera opportunity.God help us if he goes to the i.m.f he sold our gold cheap and then made us a third world country and then cameron selling out to clegg who actually lost seats and giving him the chance to dictate policies cameron should be sacked and haig installed.who could ever trust cameron in his creeping chance to get into no 10
- anon leicestershire, leicestershire, 12/05/2010 11:57
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All sweetness and light, just like the content-free literature we had dumped through our doors.
Cameron claimed to be 'friend of the motorist'. The LibDems promised 'a fair deal for motorists', by which they mean the gradual imposition of road pricing, and this will not be cost-free.
Cameron is quite happy to put the technology in place in the form of road pricing for lorries and won't rule it out on motorways.
As the grand design involves large-scale population tracking, we will see how deep their commitment to civil liberties really is.
And I wonder if Boris will be allowed to scrap the Kengestion Charge in West London, which is what a vast majority voted to do.
- Jools, London, 12/05/2010 11:55
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Spirit Leveller, London, 12/05/2010 11:14
.........and thank you for backing up my comments beautifully with your ridiculous reply. You just confirm everything I say about bad losers! Thank you
- Margy, London, 12/05/2010 11:46
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Spirit Leveller, London, 12/05/2010 11:14
But alas, my comments were and are fact.......much as that embitters you.
- Margy, London, 12/05/2010 11:44
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Incapable of writing anymore, this past week has been the best holiday at home with the elections! Back to work soon, just hope PA roles have not all disappeard, although it's a nice time to go and explore another country!
See politics in 5 yrs time!
- M, London, 12/05/2010 11:23
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Margy summed up the recidivist Tory attitude to progressive social and economic policies perfectly when, referring to Labour governments, she said "they always...cause social unrest with their unworkable and utopian policies".
The yellow (bellied) Tories are back; peasants know your place!
- Spirit Leveller, London, 12/05/2010 11:14
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@ George, London:
Very scary thought entered my mind.
Picture the scene; a dark, damp cellar at No.10. A light goes on, Lord Mandy is clutching a set of keys repeating over & over again, "My Precious...My Precious"!!!
- Scott, Docklands, London, 12/05/2010 11:08
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Anyway the most important thing is that David Cameron and Nick Clegg will work well. It really has been a success for all parties!
What an amount they have to do, I wonder when we'll all surface!
Next election is going to be fab. also hope we can see the first past the post next time around!
Michael Gove, thank you!
- M, London, 12/05/2010 10:49
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I trust that David Cameron has insisted on a full and thorough search of No10 to make sure that Mandleson isn't hiding in the cellars or roof space.
- George, London, 12/05/2010 10:48
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Why are the labour voters such bad losers?? They have had 13 years of everything and everyone going their way...the press, the broadcasters etc have all toed the line and supported labour's trashing of the country. Now that we can all see the utter mess they have caused, and because the press are being positive about the tory/lib alliance, the left are all blaming the press for bias reporting (something that has been in their favour for 13 years). Campbell, Mandelson, Whelan et al have all failed, and their final spin and deception collapsed miserably.
Find some backbone labourites and look up the meaning of 'fair play' and humility. You could learn a lot. I hope we never again see a labour government in power....they always trash the economy and cause social unrest with their unworkable and utopian policies. Hopefully, now is the time for some intelligent government.
- Margy, London, 12/05/2010 10:23
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I'm hoping this all goes well & between the 2 parties, also hoping they can get this country up & running again.
- Dom, London,, 12/05/2010 10:17
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MY GUESS IS ALL THE PROMISES MADE BY CAMERON BEFORE THE ELECTION WILL BE DROPPED. CAPITAL GAINS WILL BE IMPOSED ON PENSIONERS SAVINGS. INHERITANCE REFORM WILL NOT BE CARRIED OUT SO YOU WILL NOT BE ABLE TO LEAVE YOUR HOUSE TO YOUR CHILDREN.
TAX WILL STILL BE IMPOSED ON OUR LOWEST WAGE EARNERS.
MPS WILL STILL HAVE THEIR HAND IN THE TILL
IN SHORT JUST WHAT WAS THE ELECTION ABOUT
- ALAN., ENGLAND., 12/05/2010 10:14
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Nick, Battersea, 12/05/2010 08:27
"it was Thatcher who undertook the greatest state sell-off in history, stripping our country of key assets for a few quid and shutting down key industries.."
Even County Hall opposite Houses of Parliament which was to be next to the Japanese as a hotel !
- chrism, morbihan,france, 12/05/2010 10:11
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Yes, this was a big sacrifice to make to have to be there at no. 10, but if it really was the only way then fine, because the Conservatives should be in there, I'll be interested to hear what someone like me can see this is really reflective of something really not nice (even if you should bend sometimes for the good!) that Nick Clegg, we will come to see is someone we'lll favor like Mandelson (all with the Nick Finsih).
If I prove wrong then forgive me but we'll certainly encounter more of Nick!
Your Deputy should be your right hand man, chosen because of his solid loyalty (Nick has already proven as not)
He'll
This position is morally wrong! the country do not need protecting from Tories!
I'm Labour/with selected Tory values!
The Liberal Democrats are not! going to win any election ever!
Nick asked for too much, is selective and does not believe in PR (immoral in this instance!
You are not representing voters! Wrong! Wrong! Wrong! Wrong!
RESPONSIBLE, GROWN UP, HAS BEEN GOOD, BUT I NEVER THOUGHT FOR A SECOND THAT WE WOULD NOT RETURN TO DROPPING A LITTLE BIT OF PC! FOLK!
NICK CLEGG WAS TWO FACED, BUT A FRIEND OF MINE ONCE SAID, MOST PEOPLE ARE TOO FACECD, YOU NEED TO WORRY ABOUT THE ONES OF THOSE WHO ARE 6 FACED.
IF SOMEONE CAN KINDLY EXPLAIN TO THE PUBLIC HOW IT'S NOT GOOD! THEN I THINK THEIR WILL BE AN EXCHANGE OF EMAILS FROM THE PUBLIC. IT'S NOT GOOD, NICK YOU HAVE NOT WON IN A DECENT WAY! TIME TO DROP PC! NICK, BE A MAN AND WE'LL ALL RESPECT YOU!
- M, ,London, 12/05/2010 10:02
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Very mixed comments here so far. However, you can spot the bitter Liebour supporters a mile off, and it's actually quite scary!
The Labour party were spinning even to their very last breath - ie, trying to show Brown as a family man as opposed to one of the worst PMs the country has ever had.
To see David Cameron on the steps of No.10 felt good, especially knowing that Brown, Lord Mandy etc will no longer be pulling the strings. Yes, the coming years are going to be hard, and no doubt the alliance will be strained at times, but for the good of the country I'm sure most level headed Tory & Lib-Dem supports will wish them well. Unlike the Labour rabble who will no doubt be slinging mud from day one whilst waiting for the country to end up like Greece. I'd say just one thing - remember who got us into this mess when cuts are made. I wish the new government the best of luck, as I'm sure they'll need it!
- Scott, Docklands, London, 12/05/2010 09:34
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All the Tory voters are hacked off as is the Liberal Dem voters. I won't give this coalition long before it falls apart. Lib Dems have done extremely well out of this and are pulling the strings far more than the party that got most votes!
- Sue, Kent, 12/05/2010 09:16
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David Cameron is a direct descendent of William IV, proving that the same families have been running the world for hundreds of years. All world "leaders" are part of the very same family tree.
- Conspiracy Factualist, London, 12/05/2010 08:50
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Stan - you have a very short and selective memory (as well as errant use of CAPITALS!) - it was Thatcher who undertook the greatest state sell-off in history, stripping our country of key assets for a few quid and shutting down key industries... As for the ConDemn alliance, it's not going to last long before descending into a shambles as the shell-shocked right-wing Tories try to impose their 18th Century Colonel Blimp agenda.
- Nick, Battersea, 12/05/2010 08:27
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Its terrific Labour are looking marginalisied and frankly like yesterdays party with yesterdays adverse behaviours - Prescotts babbling on Channel 4, the Labour mob chanting rubbish outside Dowining Street - it all points to the nasty party with its adverse hate filled and myopic world view - we have a Conservative party that has shown it can put country before party - it is not a boast Labour can ever make and now we can cut the in-built bias of over representation of Labour Party constituencies in Urban Areas and Scotland - For me the lesson of this election is that Labour is a Historic Party of anacronistic dinosaurs - they look and sound bitter, petty and as their supports showed outside of Downing Street utterly without grace or decency...
- christian Ball, London, UK, 12/05/2010 08:16
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All the best David and Nick. I hope you can make this country great again, after Labour sold off lots of our Major assets to foreign firms.
- stan white, leeds uk, 12/05/2010 08:02
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