LETTER:Lib Dems wait for Labour
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.From The Earl Russell
Sir: John Major ("Major seeks to win over anti-Ashdown 'Liberals' ", 10 June) has contrived, with his usual monotony, to get the wrong end of every stick in sight. Liberal Democrats have decided that this Tory government (not all Tory governments) cannot be propped up any longer: it has simply lost the capacity to govern. I have not found any party member who disagrees with this decision: if Mr Major can find one, he is welcome to him.
We have not moved any closer to Labour. The disappearance of the Tories as a counterbalancing option leaves us alone in a desert island with Labour. That does not mean we will end up in bed with them: a bitter territorial battle, or even chastity, remain options. Which of these options we end up with is not for us to choose. The choice will depend, first, on the electorate and, second, on how far Labour will move towards our policies. We will watch with particular care to see whether it is prepared to reduce the power of the executive, and to spend public money to improve education and other public services.
Looking at the opinion polls, I am reminded of Francis Pym's rule that it is not good for a government to have too big a majority. John Major can no longer protect Tony Blair from this danger. Perhaps Paddy Ashdown can.
Yours sincerely,
RUSSELL
House of Lords
London, SW1
10 June
The writer is Liberal Democrat spokesman on Social Security in the House of Lords.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments