Paddy and the Holy Grail of voting reform
Article Abstract:
The UK Liberal Democrats believe that the Labour party will eventually give its backing to proportional representation if it wins the forthcoming general election. If this proves to be the case, then the Liberal Democrats would gain many more seats in the 2002 general election. This would create a strong anti-Conservative majority in the House of Commons and give the Labour party a good chance of winning a second term. Liberal Democrat leader Paddy Ashdown has not received as much media coverage in the run-up to the forthcoming general election as he did in 1992, but support for his party is growing steadily.
Publication Name: The Independent
Subject: Retail industry
ISSN: 0951-9467
Year: 1997
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Mr Ashdown brings the salty air of realism to Brighton
Article Abstract:
UK Liberal Democrat leader Paddy Ashdown continues to be a radical force in politics. He is able to call for significant changes in policy without being burdened by the constraints of ministerial office. However, his radical stance will have been in vain unless he is able to persuade the Labour government to give the Liberal Democrats a real share in power. Prime Minister Tony Blair wants to secure Ashdown's support, but is also under pressure to delay a referendum on proportional representation until after the next election.
Publication Name: The Independent
Subject: Retail industry
ISSN: 0951-9467
Year: 1998
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Ashdown ran away from telling the harsh truth
Article Abstract:
UK Liberal Democrat leader Paddy Ashdown enjoys great popularity within his party. This means that he can afford to express views which may not meet with approval from many party members. He can also point out the difference between where he wants to take the party and where the party wants to be. He has warned that the party will have to make some compromises if it is to make progress towards constitutional reform, and has acknowledged that Prime Minister Tony Blair is committed to changing the UK's political culture.
Publication Name: The Independent
Subject: Retail industry
ISSN: 0951-9467
Year: 1997
User Contributions:
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