The Independent reports comments by Nick Clegg over how this week's referendum on voting reform is likely to change the nature of the coalition Government, regardless of the result.
According to the paper, Clegg states the AV poll will mark the end of the "first phase" of “real collective discipline" and herald a period in which the parties can express their differences more openly in future. Observers agree but cite the real reason will be a necessity for the embattled Lib Dems to concentrate on its continued survival in the wake of what are expected to be disastrous results in municipal and regional elections.
MPs who are already questioning the benefits of being in government in light of the anticipated long-term electoral damage are reportedly telling each other that only a total split will save seats the next time around. It is doubtful however that a challenger will emerge from among parliamentary ranks to exploit this viewpoint.
Meanwhile, and to add further insult to injury, a recent YouGov poll suggests that electors won’t even give Clegg credit for being “prepared to take tough and unpopular decisions”. Only 5% thought the statement applied to the Lib Dem leader whilst 53% agreed that David Cameron definitely displayed this kind of quality.
Says it all, really.
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