Author Archives: Rob Murphy

Opinion: Cameron’s lurch to the right is Clegg’s opportunity

By Rob Murphy | Wed 10th October 2012 - 11:54 am

Party conference seasons are rarely memorable. Apart from Cameron’s “call that election – we will fight, Britain will win” bluff, which prompted Gordon Brown to call off the “election that never was” in 2007. Apart from a few leadership shocks – Ed Miliband’s pipping of his brother to the line on the shoulders of the trade unions in 2010 and the foundering of David Davis’ leaden leadership bid in 2005.

It may be premature to pass judgment on this conference season just yet. But it is a season that will be remembered for three things. Nick

Posted in Op-eds | Tagged 2015 general election, conservatives, david cameron and nick clegg | 70 Comments

Opinion: Egypt – time now for the power of votes in ballot boxes

By Rob Murphy | Sat 26th November 2011 - 11:54 am

Egyptians have risked, and continue to risk, so much for their future. Back in February, there was jubilation in Tahrir Square, at the ousting of President Mubarak after forty years of autocratic rule. There was hope for a more democratic future. Nine months on, they are back in Tahrir facing military and police brutality, asking why the ruling military council is denying the people that future.

These are the most sustained protests since Mubarak was ousted. Nearly 40 people have been killed. It is thought that many have been shot dead by the security forces. Many hundreds are injured. There are …

Posted in Europe / International and Op-eds | Tagged egypt and william hague | 3 Comments