Originally Posted by
Geoff Parkstone
and its no coincidence that Cameron was a remainer!
I think I would describe myself as apolitical - I actually detest both main parties and regard neither of them as worthy of my support, I regard the libdems as a waste of space leaving just the greens (whose policies are probably to the left of Corbyn in many cases) to win my vote: which they do. You could characterise this as a safe protest vote, and in many ways it is, although I do agree with many of their environmental policies. Beyond that my choice is restricted to various lunatic fringe parties.
So no, I am not pro Tory, although I am pro some of their policies, which I might also be under a Starmer led Labour, asopposed to Corbyn who, like Swale, has alienated much of his own support and damaged "his party" intensely,
On the other hand I defend the government (and probably would do whoever was in power - except Corbyn) simply because they have had not one poisoned chalice to deal with (Brexit) but then an even more poisoned one in COVID. Brexit was an apolitical decision and it fell on a Tory government to put it into effect, often against the wishes of many of their MP's and indeed supporters. My assessment of the deals carved out are thus viewed in this context. Would have been interesting to see what sort of deal would have been drawn up if a different coloured parliament was negotiating it. Whoever is having to make decisions will get the criticism of the other side.
Re COVID the government make mistakes and change their minds as would anyone in the face of an unknown "enemy" where noone has a model to follow and policy is made on the hoof, but I see no point slavishy hammering them for their every move. Again COVID response should be apolitical, not a sniping opportunity.
I remember many moons ago I was advocating a government of national unity to deal with Brexit, and COVID response would have benefitted greatly from being cross party as it would eliminate the political swipes. Not sure the response would have been any different, but maybe better informed and communicated