Cameron: The Heir to Blair?

Over the past weeks, the controversy over the proposed new EU Presidency has become more and more of a pressing issue. Cameron clearly does not support Blair for the job and he sees that the job should not exist at all. He would rather have an administrative position, he sees creating a President of Europe “an emblem of statehood”, something he feels “uneasy” about (to say the least!). I think most people fear a move towards a unified states of Europe! If either Brown or Cameron win the next election, President Blair would be a nightmare for them. Brown having spent his political career to get into Blair’s job would then find him one position up in the hierarchy, yet again. And Cameron would find that, having spent his career as leader of the Conservative Party trying to oust Blair and Brown’s New Labour, Blair would be in a position of seeming greater authority, yet again! However the truth is, is that the position of an EU President is largely misunderstood. The role is more of a French “President” in a business company. This is more of a position of a chairman. Cameron does not realise this when he puts his case against anyone, especially Blair, taking the job. He would prefer “more cooperation between states” and would want to see a more “chairmanic role”; well this is exactly what the post would be!

Blair has not only come back into the spotlight through Europe, recently he has also shone through in the performances of David Cameron over the past weeks and months. In his conference speech he subtly appealed to disgruntled and wavering Labour supporters, showing a more compassionate side to the Conservative party; promising help and care for those in need. Whether this is merely a mask to win easy votes, only time will tell. Cameron realises the only way to win is to move more to the left and start taking up Labour voters who would otherwise move Lib Dem or abstain altogether. This is exactly what Blair did in 1997 and the following elections. The “Third Way”, he had to move to the centre ground to pick up much needed support. Cameron has learnt a few tricks from Blair, and under the smarmy exterior, this can be seen quite clearly. I personally hope, for the sake of Britain’s future, that he really is moving more to the centre and truly is creating a new compassionate Conservative Party where betrayed New Labour voters can perhaps find a new home?

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