Back in the days when New Labour was new, the clear message was that a Labour Government could be expected to change the electoral system, to avoid this kind of dilemma. Then they ratted on it. Understandably - the possibility of the Tories slipping back in is the strongest weapon in New Labour's armoury, when it comes to persuading people to vote Labour tactically when they don't actually feel like doing so.

It always makes me think of a hostage situation "Vote me, or the kid gets it".

And they have the effrontery to suggest that the reason voting numbers are falling away is "voter apathy".

One thing - Michael Howard's majority down in Folkestone is only 5,907 - a lot lower than Tony Blair's 17,713 voters. Now wouldn't it be good if they could both be wiped out electorally, the way they deserve to be wiped out!