The Independent Group

Bl4ckGryph0n

They need a few more, but if the others trickle in to join as it reportedly is normal over the next few weeks they’d could become the third party. That is of course if they decide to form a party.

Big enough news I’d say to warrant their own thread.

I lay my cards on the table, not that they can be counted...but hey ho. I quite like Chukka, he often comes across as fair and reasonable to me. I heard his speech on the radio on my way home and it all resonated with me. Granted words are easier than actions but the change has got to start somewhere.

And for balance, I thought Tom Watson’s reaction was also very good, and fair.

I look forward with interest to what happens next and what direction this will take.

rancidpunk

I'm the same with Chuka. I don't agree with everything, but he's head and shoulders above most politicians.

I've been waiting for a more centrist party to save me from our current political nightmare, so here's hoping. I still think they'll be doomed to failure though, if it happens, unfortunately.

IronGiant

Their biggest hurdle may be the next GE.  As they are all in safe Labour seats, they may disappear come the next vote.

krish

I look forward to the gang of seven expand with more prominent centrist voices from across the house, because so far it's just the well known Chuka, the infamous Luciana, someone who gapes and a few others.

Sonic67

How long will he last as the centre of attention?

Chuka Umunna withdraws from Labour leadership contest

Chuka Umunna, the shadow business secretary, has withdrawn from the Labour leadership contest, citing the impact the increased level of attention would have on him and those close to him.

In a statement, Umunna said he thought he understood the level of scrutiny and attention the leadership contest would bring, but that he had found it uncomfortable.

Sonic67

oooo

Tory minister and four Conservative backbench MPs poised to join new Labour splinter group

Bl4ckGryph0n

With best intentions, considering he is already united us there has got to be a really good future for him.

EarthRod

With the current FPTP voting system in place I have a suspicion the new Splinter Group or Independent Group will dwindle to nothing at the next general election.

DroidSkin

People’s vote advocates who don’t think the labour voters deserve a by-election. They will be gone at the next GE if they don’t return to Labour before then.

Feel sorry for Luciana Berger, nobody deserves the bullying she has been subjected to and would have done the same a long time ago if I was her.

Rasczak

However sincere and earnest this new group is, unless a vast portion of the activist and donor base goes with them, they will simply be wiped out at the next election.