Just been reading Mr Happys' thread on George from 2003, it makes very interesting reading.

The vast majority of Mudcatters at that time thought George a hypocritical arse-licker. they were also sure that his political career would end with his expulsion from New labour.
Instead George has been re-elected as an independent, defeating one of Blairs favourites, and is also the toast of American progressives.

Hate to say "I TOLD YOU SO!!"...Ake