News of James Chapman’s proposed new party, imaginatively called the Democrats, has been floating around for a day or so, but it was this morning’s performance on the Today Programme which set the www. buzzing. Guido has the sound clip. The BBC saw fit to introduce its customary balance by inviting the unflappable Brexiteer Jacob Rees-Mogg into the studio as well.
I suspect listeners were more impressed by the ferocity of Mr. Chapman's interruptions and his somewhat hysterical delivery than by his message, which was roughly that:
- He has several supporters or sympathisers including 7 ministers, including 2 cabinet members.
- The Tory brand is damaged and can never again be elected.
- A Hard Brexit will make Black Wednesday look like a picnic.
- 60% of the Tory Party are/were for Remain.
- The gap in the centre leaves people politically homeless.
- We were sold a pack of lies during the referendum campaign.
- Where is the £350?
- Brexit is undeliverable and will be disastrous to the economy.
- Jacob Rees-Mogg has captured my party.
Jacob Rees-Mogg managed:
- The democratic process.
- Undermining the democratic process.
- The will of the people.
Anyway, one of the most un self-aware remarks one is likely to ever hear was John Humphrys saying indignantly “Let him finish his sentence!”
