***************************************************************************************

The Hurstpierpoint & Hassocks Branch recently invited members of the Henfield & District Branch to join them at their September meeting.  A total of 14 members participated in a very lively discussion of two items, firstly the General Election, secondly the forthcoming leadership election.

To start the discussion of the General Election, members were asked to agree with their neighbour one reason for the Party’s poor performance.  Surprisingly, every pair offered a different reason.  Following further discussion the list included: the unpopularity of the (previous) leaders, wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, the economic downturn, MP’s expenses, the traditional reluctance of the British electorate to support any party for more than full three terms, and immigration.

Turning to the leadership election, support for all the candidates was offered and discussed, before a mock election that resulted in Ed Miliband being chosen with 50% of the first preference votes.

We await the real election with interest!

The picture below shows members enjoying the lively debate and refreshments!