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it is definitely not a time to be complacent. i hope starmer will be a different prospect than macron though, who tore into/through the state and it’s ‘offer’ to the french people on behalf the bosses as well not being kind or fair to immigrants. i think starmer is aware of the sense of alienation amongst many, and how vulnerable this makes them to support violent acts (including cutting ties with europe, dehumanising the poor and vulnerable in order to justify cuts etc) as an ‘answer’. God knows what he can do about it in 5 years though. Hopefully stuff that can be quickly sorted out in the tories wake will have an effect. however, austerity is baked into uk law with osbourne’s deficit act. So structural things are going to inhibit positive change. While this affects the little person, at the same time you have the people, through wealth and influence, who have been used to having their way in the uk suddenly disenfranchised. what becomes of the networks of vested interests suddenly disconnected from westminister with the murdochs being a case in point? it’s their relationship to the far right that is as much as a worry as the ‘people’s’
I'm more nervous about the next election in 5 years time.. This time, we see a Tory wipe out with complete domination by Labour. In 5 years time, when Labour have not improved things for the majority, we see mass disillusionment with all "traditional" parties and a consequent massive rise in support for Reform (or whatever their next iteration is). Just look at how France is going - it can (will) also happen in the UK.
So, much as I hate the Tories, we must remember that a decent sized opposition is an important part of a healthy functioning democracy.
(As an aside, I highly recommend Ian Dunt's book "How Westminster Works... And Why It Doesn't")