The Tories want to create diving lines with Labour on policy issues like housing, migration and health - but is that wise when the Conservative's own record is patchy at best?
It's important to remember that - despite the endless media attention - the vessel was never much of an answer to the vexed question of what to do with the 50,000 or so asylum seekers housed in hotels.No, the aim of the barge was for it to be a symbol of the government's no holds barred approach to irregular migration.Tory MPs and voters may be forgiven for wondering what chance there is of hundreds of asylum seekers beingOr to put it another way, this is about competency.
The party appeared to do that this week with the shadow immigration minister calling the measure a"mess" but also suggesting they wouldThe partial implosion of the policy now shows the potential dangers of this flavour of political triangulation and will likely fuel calls from the left of the party for the leadership to be bolder in speaking out on divisive so-called"wedge" issues.
The hope in Downing Street is that by the time of the next election, progress on the economy, healthcare and migration will give ministers a firmer footing to launch attacks from.
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Migrant barge out of action for weeks over Legionella as Tories calls for Braverman's sackingSuella Braverman should be sacked, says Tory as Bibby Stockholm to be out of action for weeks over Legionella
Read more »
Tories should stop gaslighting Diane Abbott over migrant boat tragedyOpinion: Tories should stop gaslighting Diane Abbott over migrant boat tragedy The Hackney MP is the voice of humanity in a debate dominated by hateful rhetoric typified by the Conservative deputy chairman Lee Anderson writes LesterJHolloway
Read more »
Tories under pressure to halt Channel crossings after six migrants dieThe Government has been accused of having “blood on their hands” after six migrants died in the Channel, with ministers under fresh pressure to crack down on small boat crossings
Read more »
How Rishi Sunak's Obsession With 'Wedge Issues' Risks BackfiringThe prime minister wants to draw dividing lines between Labour and the Tories on everything from climate change to immigration.
Read more »
Night out? Petsitting? Long car journey? Voters pick between Starmer and Sunak in new pollMost people would rather go on a night out or spend the weekend with Sir Keir Starmer than Rishi Sunak, according to a poll
Read more »
Health secretary 'open to requests' for Scotland and Wales patients to be treated in EnglandSteve Barclay suggested he would consider appeals for people who have been waiting a long time to come to England for treatment
Read more »