Last week ConHome broke the news that 16 to 24 people were sadly losing their jobs at CCHQ. Yesterday I noted the self-inflicted wounds that were exacerbating the effects of the credit crunch.
Some blogosphere chat has suggested that the Conservative Research Department has been affected by the economies. That isn't true. It may even be possible that some refugees from the 'crunched' External Relations Department will join CRD and result in it being strengthened somewhat.
The Telegraph's Iain Martin has picked up the story btw and his recommendation that one person be put in charge of CCHQ is absolutely on the money. We've been worried about there being Three Chairmen for some time. With Andrew Feldman's appointment there are at least four cooks endangering the broth.
Tim Montgomerie
It is time we had a democratically elected Chairman accountable to the membership. Then we would not get into these recurring problems. Perhaps Lord Ashcroft might stand? I am happy to nominate him.
Posted by: John Strafford | December 08, 2008 at 17:35
This mess is the perfect cover to move Osborne, as Iain suggests, into the Chairman role where his skills will be best placed.
No loss of face, simply moving personnel to reflect the changed world, and state of the party.
How many more people need suggest that Osborne would be perfect as Chairman before Cameron listens?
Posted by: GB£.com | December 08, 2008 at 17:42
I wouldn't be interested in becoming another chairman. Too busy with projects / relaxing / posting on ConHome etc.
I'll call you, Dave. Let Osborne do it.
Posted by: Henry Mayhew - ukipper | December 08, 2008 at 18:20
In the next hour or so we're going to get a new poll on voting intentions. To be honest I'm not expecting a great result, but this is Populus we're talking about. Unfortunately, I think the Queen's speech was given favourable coverage, and this "Gordon Brown said" line continues in the media as it has since September, despite everything with Damian Green. But fingers crossed.
Posted by: Votedave | December 08, 2008 at 19:45
We have it on good authority up here that Sayeeda Warsi will be the next Chairman of the Conservative Party. You heard it hear first!
Posted by: Dewsbury Tory | December 08, 2008 at 21:39
Britain unaffected by the Conservative Research Department.
Posted by: Henry Mayhew - ukipper | December 08, 2008 at 22:17
That's a relief, though I suspect its a u-turn and the blogosphere was actually on to something.
Posted by: Old Hack | December 08, 2008 at 22:19
Henry,
You are a guest here and I'm grateful for alternative views but there are limits to hospitality.
If you offer constructive critiques that's helpful but constant negativity serves no purpose.
Posted by: Tim Montgomerie | December 08, 2008 at 22:21
You didn't like my comment re. Mr Cameron's speech on 'International human rights' did you Ed!
I supported you yesterday when you were being negative about CCHQ's profligate spending.
I will give it a rest out of respect for private property not because the 4% lead Conservative Parliamentary Party deserve plaudits.
Time is running out.
Posted by: Henry Mayhew - ukipper | December 08, 2008 at 22:33
Supporting me when I'm being the awkward squad doesn't count as balance Henry!
:-)
Posted by: Tim Montgomerie | December 08, 2008 at 22:36
I always support you Ed. because you have earned my respect.
Posted by: Henry Mayhew - Looking for the positive in Dave | December 08, 2008 at 22:46
Evening Dewsbury Tory. Perhaps we could meet up, together with Wearside Tory and North East Tory and form a Tories in unpromising areas club. The inaugural meeting could be held on a council estate in Stoke :)
Posted by: Salford Tory | December 09, 2008 at 20:10