There is an increasing number of calls for a new Centrist Party to counter the current polarisation of UK politics. Many come from those who are unhappy at the lurch of their favoured party to the hard left (Labour) or far right (Tories). Many come from the half of the voting population that is pro Europe and against Brexit or, at least, against a hard Brexit. Many currently vote for the Lib Dems or the more moderate candidates of the two big parties. Many are the better informed members of UK society. Brought together, they could form a significant and muscular block in Parliament.
A Centrist Party has to offer realistic hope for the future of the UK and its people and their communities; not hope based on wild unaffordable promises of handouts for all or, conversely, hope based on the long term effects of austerity now and on resilience and self sufficiency. It has to robustly defend the country, its people and our democracy. It has to have a vision of a fair, just and tolerant society. It must listen to and represent all sections of that society by age, gender, race and religion. It must build a federal UK within a reformed European Union and acknowledge and nuture the friendship, support and security offered by that body. It has to be a sensible, caring and moderate party.
Any movement towards such a new party must use social media to promote its ideals and take feedback on them, to recruit supporters to its cause and organise making its voice and theirs heard. It needs good and appealing leadership and powerful sponsors. Its leaders and sponsors need to make clear their commitment to saving our UK and to building a new and better society with a strong sense of community and purpose and with hope.
Who will step up to this plate and start the move to re-centre UK politics? Who will use their clout and resources to this end? Could there be a working coalition of centrist newspapers and other media outlets. Could philanthropists declare for this cause? Could established politicians and celebrities, true centrists, also declare for the cause?
Who will help Save Our UK?