Today published I published my thoughts on the future of progressive politics in Britain.
About The Liberal Moment
This pamphlet is about the future of British politics. Specifically, it is about the future of progressive politics in Britain. It is obvious to most people that Labour’s time is up. This Government displays all the hallmarks of a government running out of road – tired, ideologically incoherent, and internally fractured.
The question for progressives is what comes next? Is it inevitable that the red-blue/blue-red pendulum of British politics must swing again away from the progressive hopes offered by New Labour in its early days, only swinging back in many years to come once the Conservatives have had another go? Or is there life still left in the ideals of fairness, social mobility, sustainability, civil rights and internationalism which are the lifeblood of progressive thought?
My argument is simple: if progressives are to avoid being marginalised by an ideologically barren Conservative party, bereft of any discernible convictions other than a sense of entitlement that it is now their turn to govern, then the progressive forces in British politics must regroup under a new banner. I believe that liberalism offers the rallying point for a resurgent progressive movement in Britain.
Dear Ms Ennis
I wish to add my heartfelt congratulations to the many you have deservedly received following your win at the IAAF World Championships in Berlin.
You have given pleasure to countless people who watched your joy in achieving gold in the Heptathlon. It was an inspirational culmination of all your efforts to overcome the setbacks you experienced in the build up to the Olympics last year.
I know your joy is shared by your family and those who have also helped and supported you and I wish you all well – and continuing success in the future.
Yours sincerely, Nick Clegg MP for Sheffield Hallam
As Ramadan comes round once more, I’d like to wish all Muslims observing the month my very best wishes.
I have learned from working with Muslim communities across the UK – and indeed from the many Lib Dem councillors and candidates who are practising Muslims – that the fasting and Qur’an reading during Ramadan provide spiritual renewal and enlightenment. As friends and family are brought together every night, we also reflect on all the millions of people around the world who still go without food and clean water every day.
We in the Liberal Democrats have always championed religious tolerance, and we are proud of the diverse traditions in our country.
We recognise the importance of the principle of Zakat to Muslims, especially at this time, and I deeply regret that Islam can be unfairly portrayed in many parts of the media especially when Muslim communities in this country do so much excellent charitable work.
I congratulate Muslims for the volunteering and donations they make during the month of Ramadan and at other times, and, more broadly, to thank British Muslims for the enormous contribution they make to life in this country.
Ramadan Mubarak!
