Time for some metaphorical knuckledusters

Given the huge interest in Harlow, following the local elections, I spoke to both the BBC and Sky, as well as a number of newspaper journos who contacted me.

Broadly I said that we need to do the following three things:

First; whatever the difficulties we face as a Party, we have to remain unified. I remain supportive of the Prime Minister - as do the vast majority of MPs and Conservative activists. The public hammer divided parties.

Second; we have to communicate much better what we stand for as a party. The problem at present is that everything is seen through the prism of the deficit and cuts. We must be able to bring together a narrative that encapsulates the timeless and deep rooted Tory messages of Aspiration, Opportunity, Fairness and Community. How are we going to help those who are struggling to keep their heads above water? Will we give them ladders of opportunity and a safety net in case they fall? More Apprenticeships, lower taxes for lower earners and the pupil premium very much fit into this mould.

Third; and this is where the metaphorical knuckledusters come in. Our party machine must be beefed up and - far more ruthless. Much more needs to be done to build up campaign hit teams to parallel the Union support given to Labour on the doorsteps. We must match the Labour Party's passion and motivation. We have beliefs to fight for too.

Campaigns should be run by street fighters who will roll up their sleeves and fight street by street, alley by alley. That is why people like Lynton Crosby - who ran the Boris campaign - should be brought back at Tory HQ heading the 2015 election campaign.

Enough of 'gentlemanly campaigning' - which doesn't work - when the opposition wake up every day wanting to strangle a Conservative. It is time to get into the ring.

P.S.  You can read more HERE and HERE.