Charles Clarke backs move for secret ballot
MP for Norwich South, Charles Clarke has confirmed he’s backing calls for a secret ballot on Gordon Brown’s leadership. Just last week, Mr Clarke wrote on his blog that “the General Election is eminently winnable for Labour under a new leader.”
Former cabinet ministers Geoff Hoon and Patricia Hewitt have sent a letter to all Labour MPs hoping to resolve the question over Gordon Brown’s leadership “once and for all” through a secret ballot. In a statement, the Norwich South MP said:
“I believe that this is the best way to resolve the many concerns which exist within the PLP and the ballot could be organized in a very few days. If such a ballot does confirm the Prime Minister in his leadership I will categorically accept that result and give him my public and private support through to the General Election.”
Last week, Charles Clarke was one of the Labour rebels to raise the issue of leadership, ahead of the general election. He said it was a question of ”finding the killer instinct” to hold on to office. He added “Labour’s chances would be significantly improved if Gordon Brown were to stand down.” In his opinion, “Labour’s underlying poll position is disastrous.”… “All the evidence suggests that Brown’s leadership reduces Labour support, that alternative leaders would improve our ratings.” “The New Year will be the time to ensure that the overwhelming feeling which does exist is turned into the action which brings about the necessary change. The price of failure is just too high.”
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