TORIES, THE PUBLIC SCHOOL IMAGE, AND THE OLD BOY NETWORK

Why are so many people shy of voting Conservative?  And why are so many Conservative supporters defecting to UKIP?

I reckon it's down to two things. First a disastrous impact caused by forced collaboration with the Liberals in Coalition.  Liberals many view with embarrassment as politically correct,  namby pamby members of a decrepit Party comfortable only in opposition. Second a mistrust many voters have of the Public School set, its natural association with the aristocracy, tricky Bankers and other City types.

There's very little doubt in the writer's mind that a good Public School education is second to none. It should be no surprise that many excellent politicians, bankers, lawyers,City entrepreneurs and so on have a Public School background. Why should such a good education be seen as a threat?   The U.K should welcome such expertise. 

Unfortunately the Conservative's have an image of unhealthy association with the "Old Boy" network; a network many perceive as somehow evil(I'm sure they're mis-informed), and having Public School roots. Believing that image, and disliking it, they search for a more old fashioned, in your face, firm but fair, UK-first, undiluted conservative approach, and defect to UKIP. A party where the image is more Grammar School than Public School.

The Conservative Party must deal with the unfortunate perception if ever they want to get voters back. (N.B. The Labour Party has an equal number of members of the aristocracy and old boys from Public School but a completely different image!) 

The Conservatives must also deal with their very unfortunate association with the watery Liberals.  I recently blogged that Liberals are involved in government only to make up the numbers - and I'm sure we're all pleased for them.  They are all such nice people.  But @David Cameron is fast getting tarred with the same brush!!  It's losing him votes.  

As I've said before it's time to invite Cleggy to Assembly and, before prayers, to give him a damn good public whacking  !!  On your Barracuda Bike !!