The biggest argument against Steven Ford winning the Hexham seat, is the viewpoint that voters are too attached to the political parties, which they have always voted for. But is this true? The graph below shows that research done at Essex University demonstrates that there has been a steady decrease in the electorate's attachment political parties since 1964. (Graph from The Dynamics of Party Identification Essex University 2003)
These figures only show the period from 1964 to 2001. This is before the many recent scandals in Westminster. It has not yet been possible to fully measure the effect of these. However, what is abundantly clear is that there is deep anger and disgust at everything from duck houses to the mortgage fiddles. There is outrage that the money from our taxes has been used in this way. We can have no doubt but that this downward trend in support for political parties has been accelerated.
Voters are more willing than at any time in recent British history to turn away from the parties they have supported. That gives Independents an opportunity they have not had for a century and a half, which was when the party system, as we know it, was formed.
A candidate of the quality of Steven Ford has not only the possibility of winning but has a good chance of doing so. Steven Ford can win because he represents the changing attitudes in Britain.
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