image sourceWhat did you really think of Gordon Brown’s speech at the Labour Conference on 23 September 2008? Does he stand a greater chance of winning the next election now that we ‘understand’ him and his policies better?
His speech was definitely quite entertaining. Coming from our usual guarded Prime Minister, I was quite impressed by his actual flair and deliverance. For what could be the 2nd time, I actually wanted to listen. Perhaps it was the way it was tactfully initiated by his wife, Sarah and the kiss on stage that got my attention. Or perhaps it was his attempt to add humour by saying ‘I didn’t come into politics to be a celebrity, or thinking I would always be popular…perhaps that’s just as well!’ At least it shows he can let his guard down slightly. For once, I think he actually managed to connect with the people he was talking to.
There seemed to be a mixed response from the general public, which included the much expected sceptical listeners, as well as those who were pleasantly surprised. One lady said ‘he showed that he has a focus and understands that the people are looking for a government who can support the issues that matter,’ whilst a local librarian admitted, ‘I’m still uncertain. It was well put and he knows what the people want to hear, but can he follow his plans through?’ Well, if he manages to win our hearts again, I would hope he has more than just papers sitting on his desk and perhaps an adviser who can help accentuate his speech!
But what about the topics he covered during the speech? Would you vote for him in the next elections? Do Labour deserve to won over the Tories? Referring to David Cameron, the Tory leader (or it could have been David Miliband, according to some experts), he stated ‘I’m all in favour of apprenticeships, but let me tell you this is no time for a novice.’ These are sharp words from a politician who has not exactly proved his capabilities, until now.
Maybe he does know his stuff and the results are just around the corner? Or was it just all talk? Well at this stage who knows, considering Mr Brown himself is aware that this was the one key appearance he would be making in view of a major audience, and therefore he would have to make an unreserved effort to increase public confidence in him and his party.
Sources show that there are similarities with his speech and other leaders, so more importantly; we want to know if he will back this up with the anticipated outcome? Let’s hope that his approach will be original, but sensible, using his power and understanding of the public needs, for the right causes.
He talked about the economy, saying that the UK will pull through because it is one of the strongest economies; that the UK, he believes, is the best country in the world. Being a politician, of course this could have several meanings…If he is referring to our wonderful weather; I would choose the Mediterranean any day, or even Africa for that matter!
He definitely made me think he is on the same level as us, that he can show compassion; as he talked about global poverty and that the government ‘will not allow the world to stand by.' I wouldn’t expect us to…but what initiatives does he have in mind? What are your proposals, Mr Brown, to make Britain, the government, and the public more capable of reducing global poverty? I already give to charity, and yes I have had the fortune of visiting some developing countries, but are you suggesting that Labour has a strategic plan for action to tackle this on a larger scale, because I am certainly all ears! Perhaps you could cut down taxes, or extend our annual holiday allowance so that we can provide more resources and assistance in our daily lives?
He certainly gets my vote if he continues to push health and pay issues, which he has demonstrated with free prescriptions for cancer patients from next year, and that pensions will be linked to earnings with equality for women in retirement. Why it takes so long to make these policies from a government party that has the influence and strong ideas, is news to me. The positive changes though? I like it.
All that remains to be said now Gordon is ‘You talked the talk, now walk the walk!’
