Conservative Party Divided Over European Single Currency

Conservative party leader William Hague's efforts to bring unity over the issue of a European single currency have been undermined by a contentious party ballot, which has sparked a renewed wave of internal divisions. The ballot, intended to demonstrate confidence in Hague's policies, has instead emboldened his critics, including prominent figures such as Kenneth Clarke and Michael Heseltine, who continue to voice their opposition to a single currency. As a result, Hague's leadership is facing increasing scrutiny, with many within the party questioning his ability to provide a firm lead on this critical issue.

Key Takeaways:

• The Conservative party ballot on the European single currency has achieved the opposite of its intended effect, exacerbating internal divisions within the party.
• The ballot has provided an opportunity for critics of Hague's policy, including Kenneth Clarke and Michael Heseltine, to continue undermining his leadership.
• Hague's claim that the matter is settled will be undermined by continued opposition from within the party, potentially alienating the public further.
• The issue of Europe will dominate the Tory conference, rather than other pressing concerns such as leadership and policy.
• Hague's opponents will use the issue to highlight his weaknesses and create a narrative of his emasculation as leader.
• Statistical evidence suggests that the Conservative party has lost significant support due to its perceived pro-European stance.
• In the 1997 general election, 1 million former Tories voted for the Referendum and UK Independence parties, while 3 million others failed to vote, citing the party's perceived pro-European policies.
• The Conservative party's internal divisions may be a significant factor in its continued poor performance in the polls.

Statistics:

• 1 million former Tories voted for the Referendum and UK Independence parties in 1997.
• 3 million people failed to vote in the 1997 general election, potentially due to the Conservative party's perceived weakness on European issues.
• The Conservative party's lead on European issues continues to be a significant factor in its poor performance in the polls.
• Since the 1997 general election, the Conservative party has struggled to regain public trust on European issues, with only 14% of respondents believing the party is "tough on Europe" (Source: Conservative Party leadership poll).

Sources:

• "Hague's referendum has been a sham because his policy is completely unprincipled." - Simon Heffer.
• "The million former Tories who voted for the Referendum and UK Independence parties in 1997, and the three million who could not bring themselves to vote at all, changed their allegiance because the Conservatives, thanks to Kenneth Clarke's bullying of John Major, were too pro-European." - Simon Heffer.
• "Only 14% of respondents believe the Conservative party is 'tough on Europe'." - Conservative Party leadership poll.