43% of grassroots members think Cameron gave away too much to Clegg in order to get a coalition deal (51% do not)

Earlier I published some of the findings of our ConHome survey as to what Tory members thought of the Cameron-Clegg Coalition. 69% were positive overall.

What about the policy concessions?

I tested nine. Three won more approval than disapproval:

1. 85% were pleased with the agreement to "a rise in the income tax threshold to £10,000." Today's Telegraph reports that a downpayment will be made on that pledge in the emergency budget.
2. No other concession won more than 50% approval but more members were pleased (48%) than disappointed (43%) with the commitment to five year, fixed term parliaments.
3. 43% were pleased that the detention of children for immigration purposes will end; more than the 37% who were disappointed.

Six concessions were more disapproved of than approved:

1. 41% were pleased with the decision to back a full-elected Lords. 42% were disappointed.
2. 29% were pleased with the decision to give five Cabinet places to the Liberal Democrats. 67% were disappointed.
3. 26% were pleased with the 55% threshold for dissolving parliament. 53% were disappointed.
4. 22% were pleased to see the concession to hold a referendum on changing the voting system. 76% were disappointed.
5. 16% were pleased to see the inheritance tax cut delayed. 80% were disappointed.
6. 10% were pleased to see the concession for higher capital gains tax. 86% were disappointed.

Overall 43% of Tory members think Cameron gave away too much to the Liberal Democrats in order to get a coalition deal. 51% do not believe he gave up too much.

Tim Montgomerie