Jesus, conference doesn’t slow down does it? Hectic stuff today, more so than yesterday. And the mood at conference has changed for the better. Although yesterday was upbeat, today was buzzing. Lord Mandelson, neo-liberal-cum-militant trade union, gave a superb speech which was greeted which a raptuous round of applause. The Chancellors speech may not have had the shazam of Mandy’s speech, but it was full of substance, honesty and integrity. If (and its a big if) Labour loses the next election, it won’t be for want of trying. The fight back started today.
On the fringe front, it was an engaging and uplifting day. First and foremost, I stumbled across the Guardian debate featuring James Purnell and Dave Miliband. Electoral reform was an issue that seemed to dominate discussions. Miliband was non-commital about the issue. James Purnell however, was frank and honest about his views, no doubt owing to his new found freedom having resigned from government. Helena Kennedy was her usual inspiring self. The more and more I see her the more I fall in love.
The Fabians, ever the intellectuals, posed this question at there evening seminar. Who are the new Conservatives? Star man of the panel, Mr Blond, proceeded to desecrate the left whilst telling us how progressive the right is. Although this was nonesense of the highest order, it ’twas highly amusing and kudos to Blond for standing up and saying the things he did. He may be wrong, but pluralism is good in politics.
Well, I’m too bloody tired to finish this post off so come and visit in the morning. I’ll be telling you about my day 2 Brighton adventure including the parts where I met Mandy, Red Ken and Burnham. It is not to be missed.
Very quickly though, I’d just like to say thank you to Guardian journalist John Harris. What a thoroughly decent bloke. It’s not often that you find journalists willing to engage in a debate.
