Watching the deputy leadership results unfold was a depressing experience. If Hazel wasn’t going to win it at least my second choice Alan Johnson was predicted to win by Sky and the BBC . Alas my fifth choice got the job. During Gordon’s speech I thought it was a little bit off for him to publicly sack Hazel and give Harriet her job. I was surprised by the number of colleagues who fell for the “it has to be a woman” line – it wasn’t deemed important last time round. The trots on Labour Home were gleefully gloating over Hazel’s result, combining vindictiveness towards Hazel with predictions of the demise of New Labour. So I was quite depressed.
But hang on a moment didn’t Gordon mention New Labour twice in his speech? And what was that appearing on the screen after his speech, yes New Labour was back.
On reflection it became clear that giving Harriet the role of party chairman was a master stroke. He has effectively made her minister for the Today programme and Question Time, having to defend all those things she rubbished during her campaign. I look forward to hearing her defending the Trident decision. Talk about being hoisted by your own petard! Also what one give one can take away, so if she isn’t up to the job Gordon can still move her.