So, Gordon Brown has finally fallen on his sword in a predictable, but dignified speech that came after days of speculation where it became increasingly clear that his position - not just as Prime Minister, but also as leader of the Labour Party - had become untenable.
An uncertain impasse has held sway since last Thursday's election, but the removal of Brown has apparently been motivated by the breakdown of talks between the Lib Dems and Tories. Surely that was the only coalition that would have been viable (practically if not ideologically). Even if Brown's departure does facilitate the much touted Lib-Lab coalition, that is not likely to do anything to pull us out of the stalemate of a hung parliament. Labour and the Lib Dems combined have 315 seats, more than the Tories' 305 but still well shy of the 326 required for a majority government. An...
To continue reading this article...
Join Professional Adviser for free
Signup and gain exclusive members-only insights
- Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
- Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
- Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
- Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
- Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
- Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes
