UK General Election 2010 - News on News

Conservative Victory in Thirsk and Malton

Fri, 28 May 2010 02:52:09 +0000

As expected, the Conservatives have won the delayed Thirsk and Malton constituency, the last one to go to the polls in the 2010 General Election. The vote in the North Yorkshire constituency was postponed following the death of the UKIP candidate prior to election day, but after the closing date for candidate nominations.

Anne McIntosh will go to Westminster as the winner, with Liberal Democrat Howard Keal in second and Labour's Jonathan Roberts finishing in third place. Turnout was lower than expected, with just 50.4% casting their votes.

The result has no impact on the overall result of the general election, which has yielded the first hung parliament since 1974, and was always going to be a safe tory seat.

However, since the formation of the coalition government between the Conservatives and the Liberal Democrats, the election has been dubbed as a referendum on the new government.

Cameron and Clegg Hold First Press Conference at Downing Street

Wed, 12 May 2010 23:27:15 +0000

Prime Minister David Cameron and Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg held their first joint press conference in the garden of number 10 after spending the morning assembling their coalition government. The press conference was good-humoured, but both leaders acknowledged that there are difficult decisions to make, but both pledged to build a stronger society. Nick Clegg commented that the new government would "take Britain in a historic new direction".

Talking about the Liberal Democrat cabinet appointments, the Prime Minister said that it showed "the strength and depth of the coalition and our sincere determination to work together constructively".

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Downing Street press conference transcript:

Prime Minister:

Good afternoon, everyone, and welcome. On the steps of Downing Street yesterday evening, I said that Nick and I wanted to put aside party differences and work together in the national interest. Since I set out that aim, both our parties have given their full backing to our coalition agreement, a Liberal Democrat-Conservative Government that we have negotiated.

This is the first coalition Government in Britain for 65 years. It will be an administration united behind three key principles: freedom, fairness and responsibility. It will be an administration united behind one key purpose. That is to give our country the strong, stable and determined leadership that we need for the long term.

In the days and weeks ahead, we will together be setting out in greater detail the aims and the values of our partnership and the full policy programme of our coalition Government. Today, we want to say just a few words about how we plan to work together and the significance of what we have achieved in coming to this agreement.

This morning, as part of the process of establishing the new Government, I have been working to appoint the Cabinet. Later today, I will be chairing the first meeting of our National Security Council and Nick Clegg will be at my side. There are five Liberal Democrat Secretaries of State in Cabinet working hand in hand with Conservative colleagues to address the big challenges that Britain faces. Starting with Nick Clegg as Deputy Prime Minister, Liberal Democrats will be represented at every level of government. I think this is a sign of the strength and depth of this coalition and our sincere determination to work together constructively to make this coalition work in our national interest.

We have a shared agenda and a shared resolve to tackle the challenges our country faces, to safeguard our national security and support our troops abroad, to tackle the debt crisis, to repair our broken political system and to build a stronger society. We understand that we are not going to beat these problems overnight. In particular, no Government in modern times has ever been left with such a terrible economic inheritance. Today’s unemployment figures are another sign of the human cost of the economic mistakes of the past decade. So we know there will be difficult decisions ahead but, working together, I know we can take the country through those difficult times to the better times that I believe lie ahead.

But today, we are not just announcing a new Government and new ministers; we are announcing a new politics. A new politics where the national interest is more important than the party interest, where cooperation wins out over confrontation, where compromise, where give and take, where reasonable, civilised, grown-up behaviour is not a sign of weakness, but a sign of strength. One of the major problems of the last few years has been a chronic short-termism in government. With this coalition Government and this coalition agreement that we have for five years, we can act for the long term and make the major decisions for our country’s future. That is the true significance of this coalition. It can be an historic and seismic shift in our political landscape. It can demonstrate in government a new progressive partnership, believing in enterprise, markets and fiscal responsibility, committed to civil liberties and curbing the power of the state, passionate about building a green economy, determined to build the Big Society where families and communities are supported and strengthened and eager to make sure that the Big Society is matched by big citizens, where power is taken from the politicians and put in the hands of people as we embark on a recasting of our political system.

Our Liberal-Conservative Government will take Britain in an historic new direction, a direction of hope and unity, conviction and common purpose. I am delighted to be standing here with the new Deputy Prime Minister. The two of us together leading this historic, Liberal Democrat-Conservative administration. I would like, now, to invite him to speak to us on what I think is a remarkable and very welcome day. Nick.

Deputy Prime Minister:

Thank you, David. We have just been through an election campaign and now we have a coalition. Until today, we were rivals; now, we are colleagues. That says a lot about the scale of the new politics that is now beginning to unfold. This is a new Government and it is a new kind of government, a radical reforming Government where it needs to be and a source of reassurance and stability at a time of great uncertainty in our country too.

David has spoken about many of the challenges we all face: the economy, still struggling to get to its feet; the public finances, in a mess; our troops, engaged in a difficult and lasting conflict that requires resolution; our society, still scarred by too much unfairness and inequality; our politics, not yet recovered from the hammer blows of recent months. At a time of such enormous difficulties, our country needed a strong and stable government. It needed an ambitious Government determined to work relentlessly for a better future. That is what we have come together in this coalition to provide.

This is a Government that will last, not because of a list of policies, important though they are, not because it will be easy. There will be bumps and scrapes along the way. We are different parties and we have different ideas. This is a Government that will last despite those differences, because we are united by a common purpose for the job we want to do together in the next five years. Our ambition is simple and yet profound. Our ambition is to put real power and opportunity into the hands of people, families and communities to change their lives and our country for the better.

For me, that is what liberalism is all about: ensuring that everybody has the chance, no matter who they are or where they are from, to be the person they want to be and live the life they want to live. You can call it ‘fairness’. You can call it ‘responsibility’. You can call it ‘liberalism’. Whatever words you use, the change it will make to your life is the same. You will have the opportunities you crave: fairer taxes; better schools; a fair, green economy with growth that lasts; clean, open, plural politics that I hope, once again, you can put your faith in to deliver the help and the change you need.

I want this to be a bold, reforming Government that puts fairness back into Britain, a Government that restores our faith in what a healthy, strong society can achieve, a Government that takes power away from politicians, as David said, and gives it back to you, a government that hands back your liberties and your privacy, building a nation where parents, pupils and patients can shape our schools and hospitals, where fine words on the environment are finally translated into real action, where social mobility becomes a reality for all where the great British traditions of tolerance and fairness are restored. I came into politics to change politics and to change Britain for good. Together, that job starts today. Thank you.

Conservatives and Liberal Democrats Release Details of Coalition Agreement

Wed, 12 May 2010 22:25:25 +0000

Following days of intense negotiations, meetings, and games of hide and seek with the press across Westminster, the Liberal Democrats and the Conservatives reached an agreement leading to them forming a government and making David Cameron Prime Minister. Details of the agreement have now been released and are published below in full:

This document sets out agreements reached between the Conservatives and Liberal Democrats on a range of issues. These are the issues that needed to be resolved between us in order for us to work together as a strong and stable government. It will be followed in due course by a final Coalition Agreement, covering the full range of policy and including foreign, defence and domestic policy issues not covered in this document.

1. Deficit Reduction

The parties agree that deficit reduction and continuing to ensure economic recovery is the most urgent issue facing Britain. We have therefore agreed that there will need to be:

a significantly accelerated reduction in the structural deficit over the course of a Parliament, with the main burden of deficit reduction borne by reduced spending rather than increased taxes;

arrangements that will protect those on low incomes from the effect of public sector pay constraint and other spending constraints; and protection of jobs by stopping Labour's proposed jobs tax. The parties agree that a plan for deficit reduction should be set out in an emergency budget within 50 days of the signing of any agreement; the parties note that the credibility of a plan on deficit reduction depends on its long-term deliverability, not just the depth of immediate cuts. New forecasts of growth and borrowing should be made by an independent Office for Budget Responsibility for this emergency budget.

The parties agree that modest cuts of £6 billion to non-front line services can be made within the financial year 2010-11, subject to advice from the Treasury and the Bank of England on their feasibility and advisability. Some proportion of these savings can be used to support jobs, for example through the cancelling of some backdated demands for business rates. Other policies upon which we are agreed will further support job creation and green investment, such as work programmes for the unemployed and a green deal for energy efficiency investment.

The parties agree that reductions can be made to the Child Trust Fund and tax credits for higher earners.

2. Spending Review - NHS, Schools and a Fairer Society

The parties agree that a full Spending Review should be held, reporting this Autumn, following a fully consultative process involving all tiers of government and the private sector.

The parties agree that funding for the NHS should increase in real terms in each year of the Parliament, while recognising the impact this decision would have on other departments. The target of spending 0.7% of GNI on overseas aid will also remain in place.

We will fund a significant premium for disadvantaged pupils from outside the schools budget by reductions in spending elsewhere.

The parties commit to holding a full Strategic Security and Defence Review alongside the Spending Review with strong involvement of the Treasury.

The Government will be committed to the maintenance of Britain's nuclear deterrent, and have agreed that the renewal of Trident should be scrutinised to ensure value for money. Liberal Democrats will continue to make the case for alternatives. We will immediately play a strong role in the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty Review Conference, and press for continued progress on multilateral disarmament.

The parties commit to establishing an independent commission to review the long term affordability of public sector pensions, while protecting accrued rights.

We will restore the earnings link for the basic state pension from April 2011 with a "triple guarantee" that pensions are raised by the higher of earnings, prices or 2.5%, as proposed by the Liberal Democrats.

3. Tax Measures

The parties agree that the personal allowance for income tax should be increased in order to help lower and middle income earners. We agree to announce in the first Budget a substantial increase in the personal allowance from April 2011, with the benefits focused on those with lower and middle incomes. This will be funded with the money that would have been used to pay for the increase in Employee National Insurance thresholds proposed by the Conservatives, as well as revenues from increases in Capital Gains Tax rates for non-business assets as described below. The increase in Employer National Insurance thresholds proposed by the Conservatives will go ahead in order to stop Labour's jobs tax. We also agree to a longer term policy objective of further increasing the personal allowance to £10,000, making further real terms steps each year towards this objective.

We agree that this should take priority over other tax cuts, including cuts to Inheritance Tax. We also agree that provision will be made for Liberal Democrat MPs to abstain on budget resolutions to introduce transferable tax allowances for married couples without prejudice to this coalition agreement.

The parties agree that a switch should be made to a per-plane, rather than per-passenger duty; a proportion of any increased revenues over time will be used to help fund increases in the personal allowance.

We further agree to seek a detailed agreement on taxing non-business capital gains at rates similar or close to those applied to income, with generous exemptions for entrepreneurial business activities.

The parties agree that tackling tax avoidance is essential for the new government, and that all efforts will be made to do so, including detailed development of Liberal Democrat proposals.

4. Banking Reform

The parties agree that reform to the banking system is essential to avoid a repeat of Labour's financial crisis, to promote a competitive economy, to sustain the recovery and to protect and sustain jobs.

We agree that a banking levy will be introduced. We will seek a detailed agreement on implementation.

We agree to bring forward detailed proposals for robust action to tackle unacceptable bonuses in the financial services sector; in developing these proposals, we will ensure they are effective in reducing risk.

We agree to bring forward detailed proposals to foster diversity, promote mutuals and create a more competitive banking industry.

We agree that ensuring the flow of credit to viable SMEs is essential for supporting growth and should be a core priority for a new government, and we will work together to develop effective proposals to do so. This will include consideration of both a major loan guarantee scheme and the use of net lending targets for the nationalised banks.

The parties wish to reduce systemic risk in the banking system and will establish an independent commission to investigate the complex issue of separating retail and investment banking in a sustainable way; while recognising that this would take time to get right, the commission will be given an initial time frame of one year to report.

The parties agree that the regulatory system needs reform to avoid a repeat of Labour's financial crisis. We agree to bring forward proposals to give the Bank of England control of macro-prudential regulation and oversight of micro-prudential regulation.

The parties also agree to rule out joining the European Single Currency during the duration of this agreement.

5. Immigration

We have agreed that there should be an annual limit on the number of non-EU economic migrants admitted into the UK to live and work. We will consider jointly the mechanism for implementing the limit. We will end the detention of children for immigration purposes.

6. Political Reform

The parties agree to the establishment of five year fixed-term parliaments. A Conservative-Liberal Democrat coalition government will put a binding motion before the House of Commons in the first days following this agreement stating that the next general election will be held on the first Thursday of May 2015. Following this motion, legislation will be brought forward to make provision for fixed term parliaments of five years. This legislation will also provide for dissolution if 55% or more of the House votes in favour.

The parties will bring forward a Referendum Bill on electoral reform, which includes provision for the introduction of the Alternative Vote in the event of a positive result in the referendum, as well as for the creation of fewer and more equal sized constituencies. Both parties will whip their Parliamentary Parties in both Houses to support a simple majority referendum on the Alternative Vote, without prejudice to the positions parties will take during such a referendum.

The parties will bring forward early legislation to introduce a power of recall, allowing voters to force a by-election where an MP was found to have engaged in serious wrongdoing and having had a petition calling for a by-election signed by 10% of his or her constituents.

We agree to establish a committee to bring forward proposals for a wholly or mainly elected upper chamber on the basis of proportional representation. The committee will come forward with a draft motions by December 2010. It is likely that this bill will advocate single long terms of office. It is also likely there will be a grandfathering system for current Peers. In the interim, Lords appointments will be made with the objective of creating a second chamber reflective of the share of the vote secured by the political parties in the last general election.

The parties will bring forward the proposals of the Wright Committee for reform to the House of Commons in full - starting with the proposed committee for management of programmed business and including government business within its scope by the third year of the Parliament.

The parties agree to reduce electoral fraud by speeding up the implementation of individual voter registration.

We have agreed to establish a commission to consider the 'West Lothian question'.

The parties agree to the implementation of the Calman Commission proposals and the offer of a referendum on further Welsh devolution.

The parties will tackle lobbying through introducing a statutory register of lobbyists. We also agree to pursue a detailed agreement on limiting donations and reforming party funding in order to remove big money from politics.

The parties will promote the radical devolution of power and greater financial autonomy to local government and community groups. This will include a full review of local government finance.

7. Pensions and Welfare

The parties agree to phase out the default retirement age and hold a review to set the date at which the state pension age starts to rise to 66, although it will not be sooner than 2016 for men and 2020 for women. We agree to end the rules requiring compulsory annuitisation at 75.

We agree to implement the Parliamentary and Health Ombudsman's recommendation to make fair and transparent payments to Equitable Life policy holders, through an independent payment scheme, for their relative loss as a consequence of regulatory failure.

The parties agree to end all existing welfare to work programmes and to create a single welfare to work programme to help all unemployed people get back into work.

We agree that Jobseeker's Allowance claimants facing the most significant barriers to work should be referred to the aforementioned newly created welfare to work programme immediately, not after 12 months as is currently the case. We agree that Jobseeker's Allowance claimants aged under 25 should be referred to the programme after a maximum of six months.

The parties agree to realign contracts with welfare to work service providers to reflect more closely the results they achieve in getting people back into work.

We agree that the funding mechanism used by government to finance welfare to work programmes should be reformed to reflect the fact that initial investment delivers later savings in lower benefit expenditure.

We agree that receipt of benefits for those able to work should be conditional on the willingness to work.

8. Education

Schools

We agree to promote the reform of schools in order to ensure:

that new providers can enter the state school system in response to parental demand;

that all schools have greater freedom over curriculum;

and, that all schools are held properly accountable.

Higher education

We await Lord Browne's final report into higher education funding, and will judge its proposals against the need to:

increase social mobility;

take into account the impact on student debt;

ensure a properly funded university sector;

improve the quality of teaching;

advance scholarship;

and, attract a higher proportion of students from disadvantaged backgrounds.

If the response of the Government to Lord Browne's report is one that Liberal Democrats cannot accept, then arrangements will be made to enable Liberal Democrat MPs to abstain in any vote.

9. Relations with the EU

We agree that the British Government will be a positive participant in the European Union, playing a strong and positive role with our partners, with the goal of ensuring that all the nations of Europe are equipped to face the challenges of the 21st century: global competitiveness, global warming and global poverty.

We agree that there should be no further transfer of sovereignty or powers over the course of the next Parliament. We will examine the balance of the EU's existing competences and will, in particular, work to limit the application of the Working Time Directive in the United Kingdom.

We agree that we will amend the 1972 European Communities Act so that any proposed future Treaty that transferred areas of power, or competences, would be subject to a referendum on that Treaty - a 'referendum lock'. We will amend the 1972 European Communities Act so that the use of any passerelle would require primary legislation.

We will examine the case for a United Kingdom Sovereignty Bill to make it clear that ultimate authority remains with Parliament.

We agree that Britain will not join or prepare to join the Euro in this Parliament.

We agree that we will strongly defend the UK's national interests in the forthcoming EU budget negotiations and that the EU budget should only focus on those areas where the EU can add value.

We agree that we will press for the European Parliament only to have one seat, in Brussels.

We agree that we will approach forthcoming legislation in the area of criminal justice on a case by case basis, with a view to maximising our country's security, protecting Britain's civil liberties and preserving the integrity of our criminal justice system. Britain will not participate in the establishment of any European Public Prosecutor.

10. Civil liberties

The parties agree to implement a full programme of measures to reverse the substantial erosion of civil liberties under the Labour Government and roll back state intrusion.

This will include:

A Freedom or Great Repeal Bill.

The scrapping of ID card scheme, the National Identity register, the next generation of biometric passports and the Contact Point Database.

Outlawing the finger-printing of children at school without parental permission.

The extension of the scope of the Freedom of Information Act to provide greater transparency.

Adopting the protections of the Scottish model for the DNA database.

The protection of historic freedoms through the defence of trial by jury.

The restoration of rights to non-violent protest.

The review of libel laws to protect freedom of speech.

Safeguards against the misuse of anti-terrorism legislation.

Further regulation of CCTV.

Ending of storage of internet and email records without good reason.

A new mechanism to prevent the proliferation of unnecessary new criminal offences.

11. Environment

The parties agree to implement a full programme of measures to fulfil our joint ambitions for a low carbon and eco-friendly economy, including:

The establishment of a smart grid and the roll-out of smart meters.

The full establishment of feed-in tariff systems in electricity - as well as the maintenance of banded ROCs.

Measures to promote a huge increase in energy from waste through anaerobic digestion.

The creation of a green investment bank.

The provision of home energy improvement paid for by the savings from lower energy bills.

Retention of energy performance certificates while scrapping HIPs.

Measures to encourage marine energy.

The establishment of an emissions performance standard that will prevent coal-fired power stations being built unless they are equipped with sufficient CCS to meet the emissions performance standard.

The establishment of a high-speed rail network.

The cancellation of the third runway at Heathrow.

The refusal of additional runways at Gatwick and Stansted.

The replacement of the Air Passenger Duty with a per flight duty.

The provision of a floor price for carbon, as well as efforts to persuade the EU to move towards full auctioning of ETS permits.

Measures to make the import or possession of illegal timber a criminal offence.

Measures to promote green spaces and wildlife corridors in order to halt the loss of habitats and restore biodiversity.

Mandating a national recharging network for electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles.

Continuation of the present Government's proposals for public sector investment in CCS technology for four coal-fired power stations; and a specific commitment to reduce central government carbon emissions by 10 per cent within 12 months.

We are agreed that we would seek to increase the target for energy from renewable sources, subject to the advice of the Climate Change Committee.

Liberal Democrats have long opposed any new nuclear construction. Conservatives, by contrast, are committed to allowing the replacement of existing nuclear power stations provided they are subject to the normal planning process for major projects (under a new national planning statement) and provided also that they receive no public subsidy.

We have agreed a process that will allow Liberal Democrats to maintain their opposition to nuclear power while permitting the government to bring forward the national planning statement for ratification by Parliament so that new nuclear construction becomes possible.

This process will involve:

the government completing the drafting of a national planning statement and putting it before Parliament;

specific agreement that a Liberal Democrat spokesman will speak against the planning statement, but that Liberal Democrat MPs will abstain;

and clarity that this will not be regarded as an issue of confidence.

Cameron and Clegg Name Their Cabinet

Wed, 12 May 2010 22:10:18 +0000

As part of their first day in Government, Prime Minister David Cameron and his Deputy, Nick Clegg have named their cabinet, having received approval from Her Majesty, the Queen. Vince Cable, formerly the Liberal Democrats economics spokesman, has been rewarded with the position of Minister for Business, the post formerly held Lord Mandelson.

Below is the full cabinet as announced by Number 10 earlier today:

Cabinet

Prime Minister, First Lord of the Treasury and Minister for the Civil Service

The Rt Hon David Cameron MP

Deputy Prime Minister, Lord President of the Council (with special responsibility for political and constitutional reform)

The Rt Hon Nick Clegg MP

First Secretary of State, Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs

The Rt Hon William Hague MP

Chancellor of the Exchequer

George Osborne MP

Lord Chancellor, Secretary of State for Justice

The Rt Hon Kenneth Clarke QC MP

Secretary of State for the Home Department; and Minister for Women and Equalities

The Rt Hon Theresa May MP

Secretary of State for Defence

Dr Liam Fox MP

Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills

Dr Vincent Cable MP

Secretary of State for Work and Pensions

The Rt Hon Iain Duncan Smith MP

Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change

Chris Huhne MP

Secretary of State for Health

Andrew Lansley CBE MP

Secretary of State for Education

Michael Gove MP

Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government

Eric Pickles MP

Secretary of State for Transport

Philip Hammond MP

Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs

Caroline Spelman MP

Secretary of State for International Development

Andrew Mitchell MP

Secretary of State for Northern Ireland

Owen Paterson MP

Secretary of State for Scotland (and providing ministerial support to the Deputy Prime Minister in the Cabinet Office)

Danny Alexander MP

Secretary of State for Wales

Cheryl Gillan MP

Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport

Jeremy Hunt MP

Chief Secretary to the Treasury

David Laws MP

Leader of the House of Lords, Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster

The Rt Hon Lord Strathclyde

Minister without Portfolio (Minister of State) *

Baroness Warsi

* Unpaid

Also attending Cabinet meetings:

Minister for the Cabinet Office, Paymaster General

The Rt Hon Francis Maude MP

Minister of State – Cabinet Office (providing policy advice to the Prime Minister in the Cabinet Office)

The Rt Hon Oliver Letwin MP

Minister of State (Universities and Science) – Department for Business, Innovation and Skills

David Willetts MP

Leader of the House of Commons, Lord Privy Seal

The Rt Hon Sir George Young Bt MP

Parliamentary Secretary to the Treasury and Chief Whip

The Rt Hon Patrick McLoughlin MP

Also invited to attend Cabinet meetings when required:

Attorney-General

Dominic Grieve QC MP

Privy Council

The Queen has also been pleased to approve that the following be sworn of Her Majesty’s most honourable Privy Council:

George Osborne MP

Dr Liam Fox MP

Dr Vince Cable MP

Eric Pickles MP

Jeremy Hunt MP

Chris Huhne MP

Michael Gove MP

Caroline Spelman MP

Andrew Lansley CBE MP

Andrew Mitchell MP

Danny Alexander MP

David Laws MP

Philip Hammond MP

Dominic Grieve QC MP

Owen Paterson MP

Cheryl Gillan MP

Baroness Warsi

Picture courtesy Number10.gov.uk

Nicolas Sarkozy Congratulates Prime Minister Cameron

Wed, 12 May 2010 21:27:47 +0000

The President of France, Nicolas Sarkozy, has sent a letter of congratulations to David Cameron following his appointment as Prime Minister. The letter is below;

Dear Prime Minister,

Personally and in the name of the French people, I want to congratulate you sincerely on your appointment to the post of Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. I most warmly wish you every success in the conduct of your high office.

I look forward to the prospect of working with you on strengthening the very close cooperation and exceptional ties woven between our two countries. As I had the opportunity of stressing at the time of my March 2008 State Visit, I believe in the strength, vitality and essential nature of the entente between the United Kingdom and France. These ties are rooted in history. On the seventieth anniversary of the Appeal issued by General de Gaulle on the BBC airwaves, I shall be going to London on 18 June this year, to pay tribute to the generous welcome the British people gave the Free French.

In a radically changing world and in the face of the problems we are confronting, I am more convinced than ever that, together, we are making our voice heard and can act effectively. Side by side, our two countries carry greater weight in the world. Side by side, they can contribute more effectively to preventing and resolving conflicts. The reforms necessary to overcome the financial crisis and avoid its repetition, the fight against climate change and initiatives promoting “green growth” are some of the issues on which, together, we shall have to display resolve. I am counting on working in close cooperation with you, particularly looking ahead to the forthcoming French G8/G20 presidency.

Partners in the world of the 21st century, the United Kingdom and France are also united in the European project, where their futures are at stake. Legitimately committed to their identities, proud of their pasts, our two countries have sovereignly chosen to stand at the heart of the European Union in order to make their voices heard there and so that Europe’s collective voice is heard in the world. With this aim in view, I am keen for Franco-British relations to continue making their contribution to building Europe, in the spirit of trust and friendship spirit which inspires them.

President Barack Obama Calls David Cameron

Wed, 12 May 2010 21:21:12 +0000

The two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to the UK-US special relationship during a phone conversation last night.

In a statement following the call, President Obama said:

“Today, I was pleased to call David Cameron to extend my personal congratulations for the successful campaign that he ran and for becoming the new British Prime Minister. As I told the Prime Minister, the United States has no closer friend and ally than the United Kingdom, and I reiterated my deep and personal commitment to the special relationship between our two countries – a bond that has endured for generations and across party lines, and that is essential to the security and prosperity of our two countries, and the world. I look forward to meeting with the Prime Minister at the G8/G20 meetings in June, and Michelle and I invited Prime Minister Cameron and his wife Samantha to visit Washington this summer.

“I also send my best wishes to Gordon Brown, and thank him for his friendship and his distinguished service as Prime Minister. He provided strong leadership during challenging times, and I have been grateful for his partnership. This historic election has been closely followed by the American people, and I have no doubt that the ties between our two countries will continue to thrive in the years to come.”

A Downing Street spokesman said:

“The Prime Minister, David Cameron, took a call from President Obama shortly after arriving in Downing Street. The US President offered his congratulations to Mr Cameron on his appointment as Prime Minister. He also invited the Prime Minister to visit the United States in July and said he was looking forward to seeing him in June at G8 and G20 meetings. They also discussed Afghanistan, the Middle East Peace Process and Iran.”

Picture courtesy Number10.gov.uk

Green Party: Fickle Lib Dems Have Blown Their Chance to Make History

Wed, 12 May 2010 09:30:10 +0000

Caroline Lucas MP, leader of the Green Party, tonight wished outgoing prime minister Gordon Brown well - and once again drew attention to the urgent need for electoral reform.

In a statement issued late this evening the newly-elected Green MP for Brighton Pavilion said:

"Tonight, Gordon Brown has laid down the burdens of the office of Prime Minister with good grace and I wish him well for the future. David Cameron now takes up those responsibilities and faces four challenges.

"First, bringing in comprehensive political reform, including letting the public choose how politicians are elected, that will help restore people's faith in politics. If the Lib Dems have failed to secure a genuine commitment on this, this is the biggest betrayal of the British electorate in a generation.

"Second, dealing with the crisis in our public finances while protecting those in the greatest need.

"Third, replacing rhetoric with real action on climate change.

"Fourthly, and finally, for Britain to become a force for good in the world, and to bring our military involvement in Afghanistan to an end.

"We do not underestimate the difficulties ahead. We will support where we can; and always provide a principled and progressive alternative."

SNP Say They Are Ready to Protect Scotland from Tories

Wed, 12 May 2010 00:19:56 +0000

SNP Westminster Leader Angus Robertson MP has said that voters in Scotland have been let down by Labour and the Liberal Democrats who have allowed a Conservative Prime Minister to take office - despite winning less than 15% of the vote in Scotland.

Speaking from Westminster, Mr Robertson said:

"Last week, Labour promised to keep the Tories out, this week they opened the door of Number 10 to David Cameron.

"The formation of a Lib Con coalition was not inevitable. The

"The Scottish National Party stood ready to play our part in building a progressive alliance in the House of Commons – had Labour and the Lib Dems been willing to form a coalition, and prepared to reach out for wider support across the parliament and across the nations.

"Unfortunately, the Lib Dems preferred a regressive alliance with the Conservatives, and Labour preferred to inflict a Tory government on the majority of voters who rejected such an administration.

"The SNP take our marching orders from the people of Scotland – and some 85 per cent of Scots voted against a Conservative Government last Thursday. The Tories languish in fourth place in Scotland, while the Lib Dems came third in share of the vote.

"Clearly, from a Scottish perspective, a Tory/Lib Dem government lacks legitimacy. Indeed, the parties which could have come together to form a progressive alliance won over 50 per cent of the vote in England, two-thirds in Wales, and carried broad support in Northern Ireland.

"This failure will haunt the Labour Party in Scotland for years to come. Thanks to Labour’s animosity towards the SNP and their refusal even to talk to the SNP about an alternative, Scotland now has a Tory Government with a savage cuts agenda.

"SNP MPs in London will work with our colleagues at Holyrood to protect Scotland from this threat. Now, more than ever, Scotland needs champions at Westminster.

UKIP: Cameron a Manager Not Prime Minister

Tue, 11 May 2010 23:14:42 +0000

With David Cameron now confirmed as Britain's Prime Minister, Lord Pearson has warned him not to get ideas above his station.

The UKIP leader said: "David Cameron may now our Prime Minister but he is not the head of our Government. He is merely the managing director of the UK part of the European Union.

"Now he and his party have leapt into bed with the Liberal Democrats, any pretence that they will staunch the flow of our freedoms and liberties to Brussels must be forgotten.

"Now more than ever we need a referendum on our relationship with the European Union, because we cannot trust this new Government to do anything but bow down to any decision, directive and diktat from Brussels."

However, UKIP leaders are also toasting the fact that a warped Lib-Con coalition will probably result in a fairer voting system.

A Party spokesman said: "It is remarkable, but not surprising that the two parties most different to each other in parliament have sold themselves out in their desperate greed for power.

"While we are members of the EU, it doesn’t matter who is in government.

"On the day the EU announces they it wants to take control of the UK banking system - the one institution that can help us out of this mess - it is more difficult than ever to see how this yellow Tory government will be able to do anything different to Labour in the coming years.

"Now the Tories will have to water down their promise for stronger immigration controls and their dubious pledge to prevent the EU taking more controls of our laws. This is not a Tory government brave enough to make the decisions needed to get Britain out of the mess Brown got us into – it’s yellow."

Gordon Brown Farewell Speech at Labour Headquarters

Tue, 11 May 2010 23:00:06 +0000

On the back of our party cards it says: By the strength of our common endeavour we achieve more together than we do alone.

And in constituency after constituency despite all odds we proved that again on Thursday night. By the strength of our common endeavour we achieved more together than any of us ever have done on our own.

And so I am here to thank every member of Labour’s staff, every volunteer, every member, every supporter for what you have done in the past, and what I know you will do in the future.

To thank also Harriet, Douglas, Peter, Ray Collins, the Chair of our NEC Ann Black, and our candidates and campaigners.

We know – more certainly now than ever before – that there is a strong progressive majority in Britain.

I wish more than I can possibly say that I could have mobilised that majority to carry the election– but I could not.

And so now I have to accept - and indeed assert – personal responsibility. The fault is mine, and I will carry it alone.

So to give this party I love the best possible chance to prepare for its future, I have resigned the leadership of the Labour Party with immediate effect.

I wish my successor in that role well; and I will stand by Labour’s new leader, whoever that may be -- loyally and without equivocation.

Because one thing will not change: I am Labour, and Labour I will always be.

Let me a few days after our election thank those who never gave up and never gave in, who fought so hard and whose dignity in defeat makes us so proud.

In the past few weeks, our Labour Party has shown, even when up against the odds, what we are made of.

Of course we went into this election massively outspent and with, shall I call it, a difficult media environment. In the most difficult of circumstances after an economic crisis a political expenses crisis and after 13 years in government it is to your enduring credit that we denied our opposition the majority they took for granted.

And you know better than anybody how hard fought this election was, and how dependent we were on the small, well disciplined team of which you were such a crucial part. Strong policy, robust research, creative communications and inspired new media work were allied with the most targeted and the most commanding ground war I have seen in my whole time in politics. And for all that, I thank you.

And I’m proud to say that we proved last Thursday that committed people matter more than limitless cash.

Sarah and I will never be able to thank you enough for what you have done. But I hope when you look back on these times you will tell your children, and your children’s children, about the Britain we built together and the good that we did in this campaign.

Because let me tell you what it was really all about. Last week when I was out knocking on people’s doors … and this wasn’t recorded on tape … I met a girl who was exactly the same age as the Labour government. Born on the 1st of may 1997, she had grown to know and love a Britain with Sure Start, with one to one tuition, with the expectation that every person from every background will have the chance to get on and not just get by.

She took opportunity for granted, and we fought for the chance for every child to be born in a Britain like that. We fought for the future.

And we continue to fight unceasingly because progress is not a word we just speak but a reality we have been creating where the ambit of opportunity always expands and never contracts. And we fight for progress because we know the energy and talent of the British people are boundless whenever they are released from stereotype and allowed to soar.

We know that progressive change is possible, because our very record shows it is.

The minimum wage.

Sure Start.

The child tax credit

The shortest waiting times in NHS history.

Record exam results in schools.

More police officers than ever.

Half a million children out of poverty.

And two million more jobs than in 1997.

And on top of everything we did to change Britain for the better and forever, we can be proud that there are people alive in Africa today, children in school there who have access to health care there, because of what we have done here thousands of miles away.

So when this think of these times think on the lives saved and changed, and always remember - that New Labour’s achievements do not belong to me or to Tony Blair, but to you.

We fought and will continue to fight for our public services - services that are not something that we conjure up on our own-- or that most of us can pay for by ourselves – but services that are valued because they and the realization of a true nobility that sees beyond selfish individualism, on to what can be done through our collective endeavour.

That is why we fought – and why we together we will keep fighting for justice.

So tell your children you were a part of this – but also never to stop believing that people of courage and conviction can lift our country and make it equal to its best ideals.

So to those who gave their hearts, their hard work and their votes to labour, i say thank you. I will never forget how we stood together – in happier days and through the hardest hours.

And so as you fight on, know that I will be with you, heart and soul.

And know that you have my undying gratitude, because you have given the best of yourselves to the greatest of causes. And because you have fought every hour of every day you will be able to say for the rest of your days;

I was there.

I was on the progressive side of history.

And you are part of a Labour Party which is and will always be the greatest fighting force for fairness our country has ever seen.

We are irrepressible: we fight for fairness, and tomorrow we fight on.

Gordon Brown Resignation Speech in Full

Tue, 11 May 2010 22:35:32 +0000

As you know, the General Election left no party able to command a majority in the House of Commons.

I said I would do all that I could to ensure a strong, stable and principled government was formed, able to tackle Britain's economic and political challenges effectively. My constitutional duty is to make sure that a government can be formed following last Thursday's General Election.

I have informed the Queen's private secretary that it is my intention to tender my resignation to the Queen. In the event that the Queen accepts, I shall advise her to invite the leader of the Opposition to form a government.

I wish the next prime minister well as he makes the important choices for the future.

Only those that have held the office of prime minister can understand the full weight of its responsibilities and its great capacity for good.

I have been privileged to learn much about the very best in human nature and a fair amount too about its frailties, including my own.

Above all, it was a privilege to serve. And yes, I loved the job not for its prestige, its titles and its ceremony - which I do not love at all. No, I loved the job for its potential to make this country I love fairer, more tolerant, more green, more democratic, more prosperous and more just - truly a greater Britain.

In the face of many challenges in a few short years, challenges up to and including the global financial meltdown, I have always strived to serve, to do my best in the interest of Britain, its values and its people.

And let me add one thing also. I will always admire the courage I have seen in our armed forces.

And now that the political season is over, let me stress that having shaken their hands and looked into their eyes, our troops represent all that is best in out country and I will never forget all those who have died in honour and whose families today live in grief.

My resignation as leader of the Labour Party will take effect immediately.

And in this hour I want to thank all my colleagues, ministers, Members of Parliament. And I want to thank above all my staff, who have been friends as well as brilliant servants of the country.

Above all, I want to thank Sarah for her unwavering support as well as her love, and for her own service to our country.

I thank my sons John and Fraser for the love and joy they bring to our lives.

And as I leave the second most important job I could ever hold, I cherish even more the first - as a husband and father.

Thank you and goodbye.

David Cameron Downing Street Speech in Full

Tue, 11 May 2010 22:22:54 +0000

Her Majesty The Queen has asked me to form a new Government and I have accepted.

Before I talk about that new Government, let me say something about the one that has just passed.

Compared with a decade ago this country is more open at home, and more compassionate abroad and that is something we should all be grateful for and on behalf of the whole country I'd like to pay tribute to the outgoing Prime Minister for his long record of dedicated public service.

In terms of the future, our country has a hung Parliament where no party has an overall majority and we have some deep and pressing problems, a huge deficit, deep social problems and a political system in need of reform. For those reasons, I aim to form a proper and full coalition between the Conservatives and the Liberal Democrats. I believe that is the right way to provide this country with the strong, the stable, the good and decent Government that I think we need so badly.

Nick Clegg and I are both political leaders who want to put aside party differences and work hard for the common good and for the national interest. I believe that is the best way to get the strong Government that we need, decisive Government that we need today.

I came in to politics because I love this country. I think its best days still lie ahead and I believe deeply in public service. And I think the service our country needs right now is to face up to our really big challenges to confront our problems, to take difficult decisions, to lead people through those difficult decisions so that together we can reach better times ahead.

One of the tasks that we clearly have is to rebuild trust in our political system. Yes that's about cleaning up expenses, yes that's about reforming Parliament and yes it's about making sure people are con, in control and that the politicians are always their servants and never their masters.

But I believe it's also something else. It's about being honest about what Government can achieve. Real change is not what Government can do on its own. Real change is when everyone pulls together, comes together, works together when we all exercise our responsibilities to ourselves, to our families, to our communities and to others. And I want to help try and build a more responsible society here in Britain, one where we don't just ask what are my entitlements, but what are my responsibilities. When we don't ask where what am I just owed, but more what can I give. And a guide for that society that those who can should and those who can't we will always help.

I want to make sure that my Government always looks after the elderly, the frail, the poorest in our country. We must take everyone through us on some of the difficult decisions that we have ahead. Above all it will be a Government that is built on some clear values, values of freedom, values of fairness and values of responsibility. I want us to build an economy that rewards work. I want us to build a society with stronger families and stronger communities and I want a political system that people can trust and look up to once again.

This is going to be hard and difficult work. A coalition will throw up all sorts of challenges, but I believe together we can provide that strong and stable Government that our country needs based on those values, rebuilding family, rebuilding community, above all rebuilding responsibility in our country.

Those are the things I care about; those are the things that this Government will now start work on doing.

Thank you very much.

David Cameron Becomes Prime Minister

Tue, 11 May 2010 21:51:32 +0000

Following days of uncertainty, discussion and negotiation in Westminster, the leader of the Conservative party this evening became the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. The appointment follows the resignation of Gordon Brown at just after 19:00 after it became apparent that there could be no deal between the Labour party and the Liberal Democrats to form a coalition government.

Cameron is now forging ahead as Prime Minister to form a coalition with the Liberal Democrats that will give him a majority in the House of Commons. Cameron's Conservative party won the most seats and votes in last weeks General Election, condemning the ruling Labour party and its leader Gordon Brown to their worst electoral defeat in recent history.

David Cameron was summoned by the Queen shortly before 20:00 following the resignation of the outgoing Prime Minister Gordon Brown, and not long after, was asked by Her Majesty to form a government, to which Cameron accepted. Cameron is the 14th Prime Minister of the Queen's reign.

Buckingham Palace released a short statement, saying: "The Queen received the Right Honourable David Cameron this evening and requested him to form a new administration. The Right Honourable David Cameron accepted Her Majesty’s offer and Kissed Hands upon his appointment as Prime Minister and First Lord of the Treasury."

At around 20:20, he arrived at Downing Street to applause from gathering crowds on Whitehall, and from some of his aides who had already arrived at the Prime Ministerial residence.

Addressing the media, and indeed the rest of the country, he said: "On behalf of the whole country I would like to pay tribute to the outgoing Prime Minister for his long record of dedicated public service."

He then went on to say: "I aim to form a proper and full coalition between the Conservatives and the Liberal Democrats."

The Prime Minister almost immediately got to work forming his Cabinet of Ministers, and recieved telephone calls from the President of the United States, and the Chancellor of Germany.

Gordon Brown Resigns as PM, Labour Leader

Tue, 11 May 2010 21:27:37 +0000

Gordon Brown has today resigned as the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, and as the leader of the Labour party with immediate effect. The move comes as it became clear earlier in the day that any chance of forming a coalition government with the Liberal Democrats was not going to be an option. Brown was Prime Minister for just under three years, and having lost last week's general election, goes down in history as one of the UK's only unelected Prime Ministers.

Brown left Downing Street just after 19:00 with his wife Sarah, and standing on the steps of Number 10, he said; "I wish the next Prime Minister well as he makes the important choices for the future." Speaking about the job he has held since 2007, he added: "Above all it was a privilege to serve. And yes, I loved the job."

His parting words, as he, his wife, and two sons left Downing Street for the last time were: "As I leave the second most important job I could ever hold, I cherish even more the first – as a husband and a father. Thank you and goodbye."

He then went to Buckingham Palace for an audience with the Queen where he tendered his resignation from the post of Prime Minister and First Lord of the Treasury, returning his seal of office, and recommending to Her Majesty that she call upon David Cameron to form the next Government.

Buckingham Palace released a brief statement, saying; "The Right Honourable Gordon Brown had an Audience of The Queen this evening and tendered his resignation as Prime Minister and First Lord of the Treasury, which Her Majesty accepted."

Before leaving London, and heading to his constituency in Scotland, he paid tribute to his supporters at Labour Party's headquarters, telling them: "There is a strong, progressive majority in Britain. I wish, more than I could possibly say, that I could have mobilised that majority to carry the election. But I could not and I have to accept, and indeed assert, personal responsibility. The fault is mine and I will carry that alone."

Tony Blair, who left the office of Prime Minister in 2007, allowing Brown to take up the post, also took time to pay tribute, saying: "I pay tribute to the dignity, courage and leadership he has shown in these last few days and to the quite extraordinary service he has given to our country in 13 years of government as Chancellor and Prime Minister and to the cause of social justice at home and abroad."

Gordon Brown will remain as a backbench MP for the duration of this parliament having been returned by his constituency with an increased majority in last weeks election.

Brown's resignation marks the end of 13 years of rule by the Labour Party, relinquishing power to the Conservatives.

Gordon Brown to Stand Down as Labour Party Leader

Mon, 10 May 2010 21:38:44 +0000

Gordon Brown today announced that he will stand down at the leader of the Labour Party by the next party conference in the autumn following an orderly leaders contest. The move comes amid the continuing power struggle in Westminster. Gordon Brown still currently continues to reside at Number 10 Downing Street as Prime Minister whilst a working government is sought. It is from Downing Street where he gave the following statement;

"We have a parliamentary and not presidential system in this country and as I said on Friday, with no party able to command a parliamentary majority arising from the general election, my constitutional duty as prime minister is to ensure that government continues while parties explore options for forming a new administration with majority support in the House of Commons. (continued below video).

"The business of government has continued including concerted action in Europe today to avert the financial crisis in the Euro area. Alistair Darling the chancellor spent much of his time yesterday in the European finance ministers meeting in Brussels. This morning I have had conversations with the president of the European council, the managing director of the International Monetary Fund, and the president of the European Central Bank. I have said I would do all I could to ensure that a stable, strong, and principled government is formed able to tackle Britain’s economic and political challenges effectively.

"As we know, the Liberal Democrats felt that they should first talk to the Conservative Party. Mr Clegg has just informed me that while he intends to continue his dialogue that he has begun with the Conservatives, he now wishes also to take forward formal discussions with the Labour Party. I believe it is sensible and it’s in the national interest to respond positively.

"The Cabinet will meet soon, a formal policy negotiating process is being established under the arrangements made by the Cabinet Secretary, similar to the negotiations between other parties. The first priority should be an agreed deficit reduction plan, to support economic growth and a return to full employment. I know that both parties recognise the importance of ensuring economic stability in the markets and protecting Britain’s standing and both are agreed on the need for a strong and full deficit reduction plan over the coming years.

"There is also a progressive majority in Britain and I believe it could be in the interests of the whole country to form a progressive coalition government. In addition to the economic priorities, in my view only such a progressive government can meet the demand for political and electoral change which the British people made last Thursday. Our commitments on a new voting system for the House of Commons and for the election of the House of Lords are clearly part of this.

"I would however like to say something also about my own position. If it becomes clear that the national interest, which is stable and principled government, can be best served by forming a coalition between the Labour Party and the Liberal Democrats then I believe I should discharge that duty, to form that government, which would in my view command a majority in the House of Commons in the Queen’s speech and any other confidence votes.

"But I have no desire to stay in my position longer than is needed to ensure the path to economic growth is assured and the process of political reform we have agreed moves forward quickly. The reason that we have a hung parliament is that no single party and no single leader was able to win the full support of the country. As leader of my party I must accept that that is a judgement on me. I therefore intend to ask the Labour Party to set in train the processes needed for its own leadership election. I would hope that it would be completed in time for the new leader to be in post by the time of the Labour Party conference. I will play no part in that contest, I will back no individual candidate.

"I believe that the British people now want us to focus on the economy, the continuing fight against terrorism, the terrorist threat to our country, they want us to continue to pursue the economic recovery and I will do so with my usual vigour and determination and I will do all in my power to support the British troops whose service and sacrifice cerate a debt of gratitude we can never fully repay. And I believe on Thursday the country was also telling us that they want a new politics and that the political reforms we seek will help deliver that change. I now intend to facilitate the discussions that the Liberal Democratic party has asked for. Thank you very much. As you will understand I will take no questions this evening, other discussions can be had later. Thank you very much."

Green Party: Will Fickle Lib Dems Blow Their Chance to Make History?

Mon, 10 May 2010 13:17:35 +0000

Caroline Lucas, Green Party leader and the UK's first Green MP, today issued a firm warning about "the Lib Dems' tendency to backtrack on promises" and called on Nick Clegg to insist on serious electoral reform as a precondition for any coalition deal with David Cameron's Tory party.

Caroline Lucas MP said today: "Nick Clegg has a unique opportunity to make history. Most people in politics are familiar with the Lib Dems' fickleness, but this is the one time when the Lib Dems must hold their nerve.

"Nick Clegg must not wobble. If he fails to insist on genuine electoral reform, he will quite possibly condemn the UK to many more years under an archaic and unfair election system."

During the general election campaign Ms Lucas said the Lib Dems were "not the party of change, but the party of changing its mind."

Green Party role in a hung parliament

The Green Party leader has not yet said what role she may be prepared to play in a progressive coalition should the Conservatives and Lib Dems fail to reach agreement - but it is understood that in any case the new Green MP would want to play a constructive role in fighting for electoral reform.

In a statement issued on Saturday Caroline Lucas laid out her position:

"These are uncharted waters for all politicians. But this only makes it more important that Nick Clegg makes his decisions based on the clear steer given to him by voters.

"In this election, the British people have brought in a House of Commons in which a majority of MPs are from parties which support reform. A clear majority of people in the United Kingdom voted for reform of our political system.

"Therefore, any arrangement between the Liberal Democrats and Conservatives must include genuine and comprehensive reform of the political system.

"A commission, inquiry, or any other delaying tactic will not be acceptable. There should be a referendum before the end of the year which includes options for a genuinely proportional system, not the self-serving system of AV, which is even less proportional. The people should be asked what voting system they would prefer. That is proper democracy.

"The first-past-the-post system has created a situation where people cannot vote positively for the candidate, or party, whose policies they most agree with. Instead, they are forced to vote in fear, working out how to vote to keep out the party furthest away from them in policy and values. This leaves us a grotesque democratic deficit and a poor basis on which to govern.

"The Liberal Democrats must not be seduced by the trappings of power. The people have voted for reform: Nick Clegg must not betray them."

BBC Election Programmes Come Out on Top in Scotland on Historic Polling Night

Mon, 10 May 2010 11:58:15 +0000

Election programmes screened by BBC Scotland got the viewers' vote on a night of election drama.

On BBC One Scotland, Election 2010 Scotland, presented by Glenn Campbell, the average number of viewers between 10pm and 2am was 280,000, a 26 per cent share of the audience.

The audience peaked at 370,000 at 11pm and the programme's overall reach was 1.3m, or 27 per cent of the population.

BBC Two Scotland carried the network programme, Election 2010, anchored by David Dimbleby. It attracted an average audience of 150,000, a 15 per cent share, and peaked at 220,000. The programme reached 480,000, 10 per cent of the population.

The joint reach of BBC One Scotland and BBC Two Scotland was 1.5m – 31 per cent of the population.

Atholl Duncan, head of News and Current Affairs, Scotland, said: "We are delighted that so many viewers came to the BBC for the news and analysis of an intriguing election night.

"Thoughout the campaign we have produced a wide range of content across television, radio and online from around Scotland and the UK, bringing clarity to the issues for our audiences.

"Our up-to-the-minute reporting and scrutiny of the results as they came in was appreciated by our audiences.

"This election story still has some way to run and we will be staying on top of it in the days and weeks ahead."

BBC Election Night and Campaign Audience Figures

Mon, 10 May 2010 11:38:18 +0000

Election Day, 6 May 2010, saw the culmination of the BBC's coverage with a live results service on BBC One, BBC Radio 4 and BBC Radio 5 Live, as well as BBC Scotland, BBC Wales, BBC Northern Ireland and all BBC local radio stations.

BBC Online offered a comprehensive results service, as did the mobile mini-site and the Red Button, BBC's Facebook and Twitter sites and Ceefax.

BBC's TV election coverage last night around the UK had a total reach of 17.7 million across the BBC's channels, according to provisional overnight figures between 9.55pm and 2am.

A peak audience of 6.6 million watched David Dimbleby anchor Election 2010 on BBC One, BBC HD, BBC News Channel and on BBC Two in the nations, with a 4.7 million average, 36.1 per cent share and 16.1 million reach.

The simulcast of Election 2010 on the BBC News Channel was watched by an average of 942,000 people and on BBC HD by an average of 64,000.

On BBC's Election 2010 programme, the peak of 6.6 million came around the Houghton and Sunderland South declaration between 10.45pm and 11pm.

At 10pm, there was a joint NOP Mori poll with the BBC, Sky and ITN, which kicked off BBC One's Election Night programme.

On radio, BBC News offered extensive coverage about the results, including Radio 4 and Radio 5 Live election night specials.

The provisional figures show that between 9.55pm and 2.00am BBC One Scotland attracted a 26 per cent share (280,000 viewers), with 15 per cent (150,000) also watching on BBC Two Scotland.

BBC One Wales attracted a 24 per cent share (106,000 viewers), and over on S4C, BBC Cymru Wales's Welsh language programme had an average audience of 10,000 viewers.

BBC One Northern Ireland had a 31 per cent share (117,000 viewers), with 2 per cent (7,000) also watching on BBC Two.

The BBC's multimedia offering also performed well. On the Election Day, there were 2.5 million UK visitors to the BBC Election website, and 11.5 million page impressions according to provisional figures. The most popular feature on the site was the Live Coverage page, with 2 million page hits from UK users.

The BBC News website overall saw over 4 million UK users on Election Day and 45 million page impressions, more than double the UK page views on Election Day in 2005. There were also over 3 million views of News video by UK users on the BBC News site yesterday, higher than for any other day on record.

The figures for the Election Night follow healthy figures for the BBC's coverage of the General Election across the whole of the campaign.

According to an independent survey for the BBC, over 40 million adults claimed to have accessed the BBC's election news and information each week during the campaign.

The main news bulletins, Newsnight, Daily Politics, Question Time, The Andrew Marr Show and other news programmes have performed well throughout the campaign, helping audiences to understand what the parties stand for and providing fair, accurate and impartial information.

BBC Three also encouraged younger audiences to get involved with the political process with its two First Time Voters Question Time programmes, hosted by Dermot O'Leary.

The Jeremy Paxman interviews with the three main party leaders on BBC One were watched by millions: with Nick Clegg by 2.17m (12 April), with David Cameron by 2.34m (23 April) and with Gordon Brown by 2.56m (30 April).

The BBC's Prime Ministerial Debate was watched on BBC One, BBC HD and BBC News Channel by an average of 8.1m on Thursday 29 April, with a share of 31.2 per cent and reach of 13.3 million.

Overall, viewing across all BBC channels and Sky News peaked at 9.4m between 9pm and 9.15pm on the night.

BBC Parliament with its comprehensive coverage of the election successfully doubled its audience during the campaign, achieving a new record for the channel with a weekly reach of nearly a million people (942,000).

The most used Election website feature during the campaign was the constituency map, with more than 8m UK page impressions (up to 5 May).

The BBC election mobile mini-site has seen over 6.5 million UK page impressions during the campaign (up to 5 May). The BBC's election Facebook and Twitter sites also proved popular, with 8,059 following Twitter updates and more than 22,000 following the Facebook site.

BBC's chief political correspondent Laura Kuennsberg's tweets have been followed by more than 11,000 people, and digital election correspondent Rory Cellan-Jones has had more than 15,000 followers.

The BBC has also received more than 150 "If I Were PM" videos made by members of the public, outlining what was important for them in this election.

Helen Boaden, Director of BBC News, said:

"This has been an extraordinarily exciting and important General Election campaign where audiences have relished BBC News output.

"We are proud that they have come to us in large numbers throughout the campaign and have trusted us to be clear, fair and impartial."

Click here for News on News' continuing LIVE coverage of the aftermath of Election 2010.

David Cameron Updates Party Faithful on Coalition Discussions

Sat, 08 May 2010 22:50:18 +0000

In an email sent tonight to Conservative Party supporters, David Cameron lines out what he might concede to the Liberal Democrats and what is not on the table.

"From the bottom of my heart - thank you.

"Thank you for voting Conservative on Thursday. Every vote counts and you helped Britain vote for change.

"More than that, I want to thank you for fighting and campaigning so hard for the past few weeks. I know how hard every supporter, member and activist worked during this campaign. I know how tough and gruelling it was. I know how tired you all feel now. You'll have blisters from all the pavements you've pounded; paper-cuts from the envelopes you've stuffed; bruised knuckles from the doors you've knocked on.

"But I don't want you to doubt for one minute that it has been worth it. First of all, we should be proud not just of how hard we fought, but the way we fought. Our campaign was unremittingly positive and optimistic - and that's just what our country needed.

"Second, we should be proud of the results we achieved. We gained more seats than at any election since 1931. We became the largest party in the House of Commons by a considerable margin. And we got two million more votes than Labour - and indeed, more votes than Labour did when they won in 2005. The swing we achieved was massive by historic standards.

"By any measure, these are really impressive results and I, the Shadow Cabinet, our MPs old and new, and all our candidates owe each and every one of you a huge thank you.

"But however much pride we can take in the enormous advance, we have to accept that we fell short of an overall majority. I know how much you wanted one - I wanted one too. But now we have to work with what we have. As I have been saying these past couple of days, it is vital Britain gets strong, stable and decisive government. The challenges we face - a war in Afghanistan, the debt crisis and an economy that is stuck, deep social problems, political crisis - call for nothing less. So it is in Britain's national interest that the Conservative Party rises to this challenge and works to secure good government for our country.

"That's why yesterday, I made a big, open and comprehensive offer to Liberal Democrats. I want - and I believe the country expects - our two parties to work out how we can deliver strong and stable government to tackle Britain's big and urgent problems. Right now, talks are underway. Inevitably, there will be masses of unfounded speculation in the press, but I wanted to tell you my thinking directly, and I hope I'll be able to give you direct updates as we move forward.

"So first, I want to make clear that I do not believe any future government should give more powers to Brussels, be weak on immigration or put the country's defences at risk. So we will stand firm on these issues.

"But I also believe there are many areas of common ground between us and the Liberal Democrats - such as the need for education reform, building a low-carbon economy, reforming our political system, decentralising power, protecting civil liberties and scrapping ID cards.

"There are also areas where I believe we in the Conservative Party can give ground, both in the national interest and in the interests of forging an open and trusting partnership. For example, we want to work with the Liberal Democrats to see how we can afford to reduce taxes on the lowest paid. Of course, we hope to see a similarly constructive approach from the Liberal Democrats - not least on the urgent issue of tackling the deficit.

"Inevitably, these negotiations will involve compromise. But that's what working together in the national interest means. I hope we can sort things out as quickly as possible, for the good of the country. But we won't rush into any agreement.

We've got to make sure that anything that results really is the best possible outcome for Britain - that it really is in the national interest. After all, that's what this party has always been about. That's what I'm about. And I know that's what you want, and what the country wants right now too.

"Thank you."

Click here for News on News' continuing LIVE coverage of the aftermath of Election 2010.

Caroline Lucas on Electoral Reform and Coalition Negotiations

Sat, 08 May 2010 22:44:36 +0000

"These are uncharted waters for all politicians. But this only makes it more important that Nick Clegg makes his decisions based on the clear steer given to him by voters.

"Therefore, any arrangement between the Liberal Democrats and Conservatives must include genuine and comprehensive reform of the political system.

"The Liberal Democrats must not be seduced by the trappings of power. The people have voted for reform: Nick Clegg must not betray them."

Click here for News on News' continuing LIVE coverage of the aftermath of Election 2010.

SNP: Progressive Parties 'Should Work Together'

Sat, 08 May 2010 15:35:50 +0000

The SNP and Plaid Cymru have confirmed that they willing to explore the potential of working with other parties to ensure the new UK Government serves the best interest of both Scotland and Wales.

Plaid’s Leader Ieuan Wyn Jones and the SNP Leader and Scotland's First Minister Alex Salmond have accepted the offer made by Prime Minister Gordon Brown of ‘civil service support’ which would be crucial in the event of discussions being held to examine options for a new government.

Both leaders have agreed that they will now seek to explore an outcome which will reflect the political choices made by the progressive majority of both the people of Wales and Scotland in the General Election.

This decision has been made by the SNP and Plaid in light of yesterday’s statement by Gordon Brown that he would be willing to speak with any of the party’s leaders. Plaid and the SNP believe that following the outcome of this election their parties have a responsibility to work towards the aim of creating political and economic stability and to secure a positive outcome for their nations.

Both parties have appointed teams who will spend the next few days discussing the mechanics of any future discussions with their dedicated UK liaison officials in London.

The SNP's team will be led by Westminster Leader Angus Robertson
MP and Depute Westminster Leader Stewart Hosie.

Commenting, SNP Leader and Scotland's First Minister Alex Salmond said:

"A balanced parliament is redolent with opportunity for Scotland. At the start of the General Election campaign, the SNP and Plaid Cymru pledged to fight for the best deal for Scotland and for Wales.

"We now find ourselves in a position to make real gains. Working together, we will use our votes and experience of negotiating in a balanced parliament to maximum effect to take Scotland and Wales forward.

"The assumption by some that the only option now available for a new UK Government is a Tory Liberal pact is not correct. There are alternatives and far more progressive outcomes available should politicians have the will to seize the moment. Plaid and the SNP are indicating that we do."

Plaid’s leader Ieuan Wyn Jones said:

“Plaid has a track record in putting aside our own party political
interests in order to work with other parties to deliver the best outcome for the people of our nation. That is what we did in Wales in 2007 when we formed a coalition with Labour which is widely acknowledged to have been a tremendous success.

"We will now do what is expected of us by the electorate and explore the potential of working with other parties in Westminster in order to achieve the best deal for Wales. A more balanced Parliament is a real opportunity to bring about a new approach to politics in the UK which would be welcomed throughout the nations of these islands.”

Click here for News on News' continuing LIVE coverage of the aftermath of Election 2010.

Nigel Back Home After Plane Crash

Sat, 08 May 2010 15:30:40 +0000

UKIP's Nigel Farage has been released from hospital and is back home recovering from his injuries sustained in Thursday's plane crash.

Speaking today, Nigel said: "It's great to be going home, though I feel quite sore.

"The staff at John Radcliffe Hospital here in Oxford have been fantastic and I'd like to thank them for all the efforts in making sure I received the best care possible.

"I'd also like to thank the thousands of wellwishers who have sent messages to me and although I can't respond to everyone personally, I want you all to know that I appreciate your concern."

Click here for News on News' continuing LIVE coverage of the aftermath of Election 2010.

Conservatives: We Need to Work Together for the National Interest

Sat, 08 May 2010 15:29:08 +0000

David Cameron has set out a big, open and comprehensive offer to the Liberal Democrats to work together in the national interest.

The country’s problems are too serious for "party political bickering, grandstanding and point scoring", he said.

After the results of the election showed a hung parliament, Liberal Democrat leader Nick Clegg said that the Conservative Party should have a chance to form a government.

"I want to make a big, open and comprehensive offer to the Liberal Democrats", Cameron said.

"I want us to work together in tackling our country’s big and urgent problems: the debt crisis; our deep social problems; and our broken political system".

Cameron said that of course there are areas in which the parties would not agree, such as on the European Union, immigration and defence. But he emphasised that there are many areas of common ground between the two parties’ manifestos.

"There are areas where I believe we in the Conservative Party can give ground, both in the national interest and in the interests of forging an open and trusting partnership", he said.

"Our big, open and comprehensive offer to the Liberal Democrats involves helping them implement key planks of their election manifesto, providing the country with economic as well as political stability, and finding further ways in which Liberal Democrats can be involved in making this happen".

He also emphasised that it is important that the country gets a strong stable government quickly.

"The best thing for Britain now is a new government that works together in that national interest, and I hope with all my heart that is something that we can achieve."

Click here for News on News' continuing LIVE coverage of the aftermath of Election 2010.

Gordon Brown Statement on Election Results

Sat, 08 May 2010 15:26:51 +0000

With the outcome of the general election, we find ourselves in a position unknown to this generation of political leaders with no single party able to have a commons majority and therefore have a majority government.

I therefore felt that I should give you, and through you the country my assessment of where we are, I do so as Prime Minister with a constitutional duty to seek to resolve the situation for the good of the country not as the leader of the Labour Party less than a day after the election.

What we have seen are no ordinary election results, people have been talking for some time inside and outside government about the possibility of a hung parliament that possibility has now become very really and pressing. The question for all the political parties now is whether a parliamentary majority can be established that seeks to reflect what you the British people have just told us.

First, it is well understood that we face immediate economic challenges that must be met. A meeting of the Euro Group is being held tonight to discuss Greece and other issues. In advance of this the G7 finance ministers including America and Britain are meeting by conference call to discuss the deteriorating situation in the Euro area, Alistair Darling is participating for the UK. Our economic priorities for Britain are to support economic recovery, this year 2010, and as the recovery stabilises to move swiftly to implement our deficit reduction plan.

On the critical question on the formation of a government which can command a Parliamentary majority I have of course seen the statements of other party leaders. I understand and completely respect the position of Mr Clegg in stating that he wishes first to make contact with the leader of the Conservative party. As you know we already have in place mechanisms and facilities that will give the political parties any civil service support that they may need. Mr Cameron and Mr Clegg should clearly be entitled to take as much time as they feel necessary.

For my part I should make clear that I would be willing to see any of the party leaders, clearly should the discussions between Mr Cameron and Mr Clegg come to nothing, then I will of course be prepared to discuss with Mr Clegg the areas where there may be some measure of agreement between our two parties.

There are two areas in particular, where such discussion would be likely to focus. The first is the plan to ensure continuing economic stability, where there is substantial common ground, and the plan to carry though far reaching political reforms including changes to the voting system. Both of us have made clear our commitment to this in our manifestos and the electorate has sent us a very strong message which must be heard. My view is clear, there needs to be immediate legislation on this to begin to restore the public trust in politics and to improve Parliament’s standing and reputation. A fairer voting system is essential and I believe that you, the British people should be able to decide in a referendum what the system should be. What all of us need to mindful of is the imperative for strong and stable government and for that to be formed with the authority to tackle the challenges ahead, and one which can command support in Parliament.

It is with this in mind that all of us should be facing the times ahead. I understand as I know my fellow party leaders do that people do not like the uncertainty or want it to be prolonged we live however in a parliamentary democracy, the outcome has been delivered by the electorate, it is our responsibility now to make it work for the national good. I am sure that you will understand that this is all that I have to say at this stage today. Thank you all very much.

Click here for News on News' continuing LIVE coverage of the aftermath of Election 2010.

Nick Clegg Statement on Election Night Results

Sat, 08 May 2010 15:10:17 +0000

Last night was a disappointment for the Liberal Democrats. Even though more people voted for us than ever before, even though we had a higher proportion of the vote than ever before, it is of course a source of great regret to me that we have lost some really valued friends and colleagues and we have returned to Parliament with fewer MPs than before.

Many, many people during the election campaign were excited about the prospect of doing something different, but it seems that when they came to vote, many of them, in the end, decided to stick with what they knew best. And at a time of great economic uncertainty, I totally understand those feelings. But that’s not going to stop me from redoubling my efforts and our efforts to show that real change is the best reassurance that things can get better for people and their families, that it shouldn’t be something which unsettles people.

Now we’re in a very fluid political situation with no party enjoying an absolute majority. As I’ve said before, it seems to me in a situation like this, it’s vital that all political parties, all political leaders, act in the national interest, and not out of narrow party political advantage. I’ve also said that whichever party gets the most votes and the most seats, if not an absolute majority, has the first right to seek to govern, either on its own or by reaching out to other parties, and I stick to that view. It seems this morning that it’s the Conservative party that has more votes and more seats, though not an absolute majority, and that is why I think it is now for the Conservative party to prove that it is capable of seeking to govern in the national interest. At the same time, this election campaign has made it abundantly clear that our electoral system is broken, it simply doesn’t reflect the hopes and aspirations of the British people, so I repeat again my assurance, that whatever happens in the coming hours and days and weeks, I will continue to argue not only for the greater fairness in British society, not only the greater responsibility in economic policy making, but also for the extensive, real reforms that we need to fix our broken political system. Thank you very much.

Green Party: Caroline Lucas Wins in Brighton

Sat, 08 May 2010 14:57:17 +0000

Greens all over the UK were celebrating this morning as the news was announced that party leader Caroline Lucas had won the Brighton Pavilion seat.

The election of the first ever Green to Parliament represents a truly historic moment. Hundreds of thousands of Green voters across the country now have, for the first time, a voice in Parliament, and genuinely progressive views on issues such as the economy, health, and the environment will now be heard.

After the result was declared, Caroline Lucas said: “The emphatic support of voters in Brighton Pavilion show that they do want to support a party whose values represent fairness, social justice and environmental well-being. They have shown that they are prepared to put their trust in the Greens, despite the overwhelming national media focus on the three largest parties and a voting system that is fundamentally undemocratic. I feel humbled by their trust in me, and I am excited by this vote of confidence and I'm looking forward to the challenging task of fully representing the voters of Brighton.

“This victory is no accident: it is the result of the hard work and commitment of thousands of Green Party members and supporters not only in Brighton but from right across the country over the past months and years. It is their work and support that has helped deliver this win, and the victory is as much theirs as it is mine.

“Thanks to the confidence that the voters of Brighton Pavilion have shown, Green principles and policies will now have a voice in Parliament. Policies such as responding to climate change with a million new ‘green’ jobs in low-carbon industries, fair pensions and care for older people, and stronger regulation of the banks will be heard in the House of Commons. I will also use my influence as an MP in the city of Brighton & Hove to push for affordable housing for the city, a new secondary school for the city, and greater backing for the city's creative industries.

“Finally, as this election shows, the first-past-the post voting system used for general elections is utterly discredited. I will be strongly backing calls for a referendum to replace it with a form of proportional representation that properly reflects the needs and views of 21st century voters. If a form of proportional representation is introduced, the Green Party is confident that its true level of support nationally can be represented properly.”

Click here for News on News' continuing LIVE coverage of the aftermath of Election 2010.

SNP: MPs Re-Elected Across Scotland

Sat, 08 May 2010 14:48:07 +0000

Commenting on results so far - including decisive wins for the SNP in Dundee East, Perth and North Perthshire, Angus, Moray, Banff and Buchan and Na h-Eileanan an Iar - seats targeted by both Labour and the Tories, and increases in the SNP vote in target seats across the country SNP leader Alex Salmond said:

"Early results suggest the SNP is on course to overtake the Lib Dems and come in in second in this Westminster election.

"This is a strong performance from the SNP with our vote increasing in key seats across the country.

"The Lib Dems are being pushed into third.

"The picture across the UK may be unclear, but it is clear the Tories have has a disastrous night as they have once again been decisively rejected across Scotland."

The SNP also welcomed Dr Eilidh Whiteford as the new MP for Banff and Buchan.

Click here for News on News' continuing LIVE coverage of the aftermath of Election 2010.

UK Election 2010 LIVE

Thu, 06 May 2010 19:15:32 +0000

News on News presents live, non-stop coverage of the election results and the aftermath, as discussions continue in a hung parliament situation, the first time since 1974.

News on News

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UK Election 2010 LIVE

CNN UK Election Night Coverage

Thu, 06 May 2010 16:48:48 +0000

As the polls across the United Kingdom close at 5p ET today, tune in to CNN International or watch online at CNN.com/Live for in-depth reporting and analysis of the closest general election in nearly two decades. Viewers in the U.S. can also watch this special coverage live via CNN’s iPhone app.

Leading the coverage from CNN’s London bureau will be ‘Connect the World’ presenter Becky Anderson. She will be joined by veteran political reporter and commentator Robin Oakley as well as a team of CNN reporters spread across the capital.

Zain Verjee, Charles Hodson and Phil Black will be camped out at the three major party headquarters: Labour, Liberal Democrats and Conservatives. As the results start to filter in Thursday evening and into early Friday, they will be on hand to bring the reactions from the heart of each of the parties' campaign hubs.

At the Palace of Westminster, Richard Quest will be joined by Max Foster, who will be stationed at No.10 Downing Street, and senior security correspondent Paula Newton, who will report from Westminster Bridge. Meanwhile, Sasha Herriman and Atika Shubert will be capturing the reaction of the general public and finding out what key issues influenced their vote.

And with the result of the 2010 general election still uncertain and the prospect of a hung parliament looming, could this uncertainty create more instability in the financial sector? CNN's business correspondent Jim Boulden will be gauging the reaction of city workers on Friday morning.

Sky News HD to Deliver More Information, More Detail and Sharper Pictures on Election Night

Thu, 06 May 2010 00:01:28 +0000

Sky News Decision Time will challenge the traditional election night format as it launches in HD at 9pm on Thursday May 6th. Sky News’ groundbreaking election night coverage kicks off with Sky’s top presenters reporting live from the field in picture-sharp HD. Kay Burley will be tracking Gordon Brown, Jeremy Thompson will be tracking David Cameron and Anna Botting will be tracking Nick Clegg in the leaders' respective constituencies of Kirkcaldy, Witney, and Sheffield Hallam. On Friday, Eamonn Holmes and Dermot Murnaghan take over as the counts finish and the story gravitates towards Westminster. An election this close is made for a 24-hour news channel, and Sky News will stay with the action until the result is clear.

Sky News will have more reporters and presenters at more counts than ever before. Their sole job is to make sure that every news-line, every result, every story and every picture gets to Sky News TV, www.skynews.com and commercial radio clients first. Sky News presenters and correspondents will be blogging, tweeting and filing their stories and tips across all Sky News platforms.

Back in the Sky News Centre in West London, Sky's Political Editor Adam Boulton will be crunching the results, conducting the major interviews, and will be joined by a variety of experts and pundits debating the key issues and discussing how the night is playing out.

John Ryley, Head of Sky News said: “On election night, Sky News will offer live coverage in HD to bring you all the results, excitement and reactions in our special programme Decision Time. The outcome will be determined in the constituencies and that’s where we’ll be. Sharp HD pictures and even sharper journalism will keep us out in front.”

Information-rich onscreen HD graphics, delivered with high energy and impact, will show results as they happen, simultaneously updating the count, the state of the parties and giving viewers more updated live information than in any previous election. In the studio, Sky News will use its distinctive News Wall to tell the story of the night in terms of the Sky 100 (the 100 seats identified by Sky News as being the most crucial in this election), the parliamentary projections and the key personalities.

At 10pm Sky News will deliver the results of its major exit poll – for the first time a joint venture with ITV News and the BBC. Sky News will get the result only 10 minutes before its release, and Executive Producer of Decision Time, John McAndrew has vowed not to tell Adam Boulton in advance, because Adam wants to be surprised.

John McAndrew said: “It’s likely to be close – so every result, every major speech, every interview, every breaking line will count. Once we’re under way, there’s no plan, no running order and no ‘off-air’ time.”