Jeremy Corbyn seems like an extremely nice man. He is like the Rowan Williams of politics. But if we are now hurtling towards the most right wing government in recent times, as I fear we are, the country is going to need an effective opposition that can robustly counter its excesses, extremes and flagrant disregard for fairness and decency. In short, the opposition may need a rabble rouser who can carry people along with them. More a Giles Fraser or John Bell than a Rowan Williams. Principled, grounded in social justice, but articulate too. A voice which can speak to power confidently and effectively. For we have a new kind of politics now, but not the kinder politics envisioned by Corbyn. “Nice” just won’t cut it anymore.
Last modified: 25 June 2016
