Controversy, reform and a new government

History is always being made, but this bit of British politics will stand out. The first coalition government in 70 years and a unique one at that with a right-wing and a left-wing party joining forces. The opportunity for power can certainly focus the mind. But more of that later.

I’m not a Conservative and I didn’t vote for them, but I was disappointed that Philippa Stroud wasn’t elected. I think despite the controversy (the Observer article is no longer available online) Britain failed to gain someone who would have made an excellent MP. The controversy certainly gained attention. I didn’t particularly comment on the main issue but instead focused on how far removed the charismatic Christian is from the thinking of the secular liberal media and what our reaction might be. Nothing remarkable really, so I was quite surprised to see this.

It is by a country mile the most read thing I have written on this blog so far. This is both interesting and frustrating. Interesting in that controversy is both short, sharp and intense in its impact. Frustrating because I think I’ve written far more significant and important things which have gone relatively unnoticed. The ripples from the story continue and from time to time the spotlight will focus on Christians influence on politics.

The last few days have been remarkable and I’m encouraged by David Cameron’s leadership in these early stages. A secure leader can offer far more than an insecure one and I think this Con/Lib partnership will surprise many. I’m certainly more hopeful than I would have been if we’d had a simple Conservative majority. Whatever your views they are now the British government and we should pray that the govern with wisdom, justice and humility.

I had hoped to blog through 16 issues through the election campaign and in the end, managed a paltry three. I had intended to read the manifestos and failed utterly. Good intentions and all that but I plainly overestimated my ability to think and write during what was a busy time for me. Some engagement still plainly better than none at all.

One of the likely outcomes of this coalition will most likely be a change to the way we vote, or at least a referendum on whether we want that change. It won’t be proportional representation, the Jubilee Centre explain it here but Matt Hosier doesn’t like it.  What is more likely is that we will see the introduction of the Alternative Vote system which Jeremy think is a step in the right direction.

I think reform is needed but social justice is needed more. A stable economy is vital but one based on a proper understanding of debt, would be better. These are interesting times and as Christians, more than ever we need to think through what it means to engage in society, politics and the media.