There is a strong case for appointing a new Party Chairman who is neutral between the contenders.
Roughly a quarter have confidence, and much the same proportion don’t know.
The latest iteration has good bits, some bad bits – and nothing substantial to boost ownership of the Party by its members.
In many parts of the country, including in some areas with very large Conservative majorities, our Associations are no longer fit for purpose.
The Chairman’s letter promises “additional benefits to enhance the membership experience”. Wouldn’t it be most enhanced by members having a bigger say?
A key issue is CCHQ’s plan to merge all Associations into larger federations.
Boles was wrong about the Party Chairman. Yes, I fess up to knowing Donal Blaney. And: The UKIP GLA candidate trying to borrow a London address.
The announcement is a real advance and extremely welcome. But this is the close only of a chapter of this story – not the end of the book.
It will clearly be unsatisfactory if Lord Feldman and others are not interviewed at all, and that he himself will submit evidence to people who report to him.
The Party Board should ensure that the issues at stake are addressed with a credibility that is presently absent.
The Clarkegate allegations have revealed flawed accountability structures and failures of confidentiality – exacerbated by a fixation with the short-term.
Many young candidates face serious financial hardship trying to campaign fulltime in marginal constituencies.
The Party needs to treat its members with respect and be a far more democratic in its structure.