In case you missed it there was an excellent article by Martin Kettle in yesterday's Guardian. He makes basically the same point as I've been making for sometime. I'm seriously angry at those naive fools who are calling for Blair's hasty departure.
Those that I am most angry at are those Labour MPs who have just been elected or re-elected and are calling for Blair to go. Just who do these people think they are. We've just had a general election. The people have spoken. The people have voted for Labour with Tony Blair as Prime Minister. It is an affront to democracy to try and replace him in some seedy "backstair coup d'etat".
Let's get real. Labour has won an unprecedented third term with a health majority. It only looks small compared to our last two majorities, compared to most 20th century majorities it is still extremely healthy.
And if Gordon Brown is to replace Blair what do these fools and grumblers think will happen. A massive policy u-turn. No. Brown, just as much as Blair, is the architect of New Labour. Policy-wise the government will continue much as it does now.
And if people think Blair should listen more and be less authoritarian then they ain't seen nothing compared to Brown.
I'm also irritated by the constant media assumption that Gordon Brown's succession will be a mere coronation. It is Labour Party members who will decide who is to be the next leader.
Gordon Brown is a brilliant chancellor, the best we've ever had. He is a brilliant politician. I for one, and I know many other Labour Party members who share my view, remain to be convinced that he is the best potential leader and prime minister.
I have an open mind and want to listen to what he has to say that will convince me. I also want to hear from some other potential leadership candidates. Then I will make my decision.
