The road ahead…?

Despite the huge statement that has just been made by the Prime Minister this evening, the reality is that a deal with the Liberal Democrats still has to be made. It’s obvious that Gordon Brown’s future as PM has been removed as a perceived ‘road block’ but what will form the basis of that coalition beyond the foundations of economic stability, electoral reform and deficit reduction is still up for grabs.

A stable, strong and principled Government has been the watch words across the commentary and coverage, providing a blueprint of where we want our politics to be. The coalition may give us none of this.  Coalitions are precarious and there are more questions left about the future than answered.

But despite all his ‘image’ problems, Gordon Brown has managed to stay above the fray and come over as a Statesman and a leader. And now, according to the FT, his decisive move means it’s ‘game on’. That puts pressure on Nick Clegg who has been allowed to flitter between suitors for longer than principles should have allowed.

The PM has set down a marker, he’s set out a timetable that will work towards stability in coalition and lead Labour to a newly-elected leader. But it also opens up the possibility about wider and deeper discussions about the direction of our movement.

As others have highlighted, a leadership election in the party will necessitate a longer, harder look at the party as a whole. Both the Next Left conference and the  Compass’ conference over these coming months will need to revive and rejuvenate the direct of our political project. Whilst these turbulent times offers a chance for our own Young Fabian Policy Development groups to inject new ideas and thinking the youth of the movement.

So, yeah, this is an intensely exciting and important time, where the left could – perhaps – come together to change British politics for ever. But let’s not get ahead of ourselves: can a deal be reached?

And you thought the excitement was all over….