Article Abstract:
The popularity of the UK Liberal Democrats has greatly increased under the leadership of Paddy Ashdown since 1988. Furthermore, the party has been able to gain significant concessions from the Labour government. However, it still faces a serious dilemma in that if it is too active in its constructive opposition to the government, then it risks gaining no further concessions. If it cooperates too closely with the government, then it risks losing its distinctiveness. Ashdown must deal with many differing views about the Labour party within his own party.
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Article Abstract:
The UK Labour party has made a number of concessions in order to secure the support of the Liberal Democrats. Labour has recognised the Liberal Democrats' commitment to electoral reform, and has made Liberal Democrat leader Paddy Ashdown its chief guarantor of Scottish devolution and a Freedom of Information Act, among other reforms. This narrowing of the gap between the two parties may actually have a negative impact on the Liberal Democrats, as they will find it hard to justify why voters should give them their support.
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Article Abstract:
The talks between the UK Labour party and the Liberal Democrats which have been taking place recently can be interpreted in a number of different ways. It is in the interests of both parties to establish a common approach on several issues, such as devolution. However, some observers believe that the Labour party may let the Liberal Democrats down in the long term. Indeed, it is likely that the Liberal Democrats will have to set lower aims in relation to constitutional reform.
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