News

Election decision is a “mistake” says expert

(9 October 2007)

Gordon Brown’s decision to delay the election is a “serious tactical mistake” according to a Durham University political expert.

Dr Gidon Cohen says Mr Brown is leaving himself open to accusations from the opposition that he is unable to make tough decisions and also that the culture of “spin” – one of the legacies of the Blair years – remains. After much speculation, Mr Brown this weekend said he would not be holding his first election as Prime Minister in November. He will make an address to the House of Commons at 3.30pm today (Monday October 8) and will later address Labour MPs. Dr Cohen, lecturer in politics at Durham University, said: “Gordon Brown’s delayed decision on the election is a serious tactical mistake, especially when so many are undecided about his premiership. “Mr Brown set up the initial period of the premiership by presenting an image which distanced him from the Blair years, particularly in terms of reliance on spin. He also set himself as above conventional partisan politics. “However, for the past few months the Conservatives have been making accusations that spin continues and that the Prime Minister is unable to take tough decisions. “The main significance of the delay in deciding on a snap election is that it has enabled these accusations to be taken up by the media, to appear plausible and to set the underlying tone of the debate.”