Latest polls suggest locals swinging towards Lib Dem
Liberal Democracy is “blooming in Brentford and Isleworth” according a poll published in the Financial Times with local voters said to be feeling that "it's someone else's turn" in government.
A straw poll conducted by the newspaper on Brentford High Street and Turnham Green Terrace showed that many of those seeking a change from Labour are looking to Lib Dems.
"I think I am going to do the stupid thing and vote Lib Dem because I can't decide between the other two," one resident told the FT. "I don't agree with their policies but they offer something completely new. That's what we need."
"I'm not sure the Tories have really changed," said another. "I was concerned that a vote for the Lib Dems would be wasted, but I'm more confident about going with my heart instead of my head."
The picture appears to be the same in Ealing Central and Acton where Betfair’s General Election Bet of the Day tips Lib Dems to win the seat. "The notional figures for this new seat point towards a classic three-way marginal,” states Betfair’s Paul Krishnamurty. “The Lib Dems start in third place, but only trail Labour by 3%.
“Given the huge swing from Labour to Lib Dems between the 2005 result and current polls, Clegg's party are clearly a much greater threat to the Tories here.
“So long as Lib Dem activists, who are a force to be reckoned with in this part of West London, can get the message across that their party are the only ones that can keep the Tories out, they stand a much better chance than their current 3.7 odds imply.”
However, some of those toying with the Lib Dems admit that they could still change their mind. "I've been wanting to change parties because of the expenses [scandal] but I expect I'll end up voting Labour again," a charity fundraiser told the FT. "Clegg seemed like a nice chap but I just worry about his experience."
April 29, 2010