You can't knock the guy for trying.

If only all the senior people in our major and influential 'bodies'/businesses (both private and public) were so inclined to seek the views of 'regular people'.

It's a good idea, asking people directly what they feel concerned about and what issues are at the forefront of their mind. How better to listen to people than contact them directly? No need for middle men or focus groups.

I think part of Labour's problem is that people perceive them to be out of touch. When campaigning in Crewe for the recent by-election, Labour discussed rising prices of a barrel of oil and increasing commodity prices whereas the Conservatives talked about rising petrol and bread costs; which sounds more in touch? The Conservative approach. Although Labour may be absolutely correct intellectually, they have to formulate their ideas in a way that people can identify with. The Conservatives seem to be doing this rather well at the moment, and Tony Blair was excellent at this.

I'm sure some people will rant and rave when they receive a Prime Ministerial phone call but I imagine most people, even if they dislike Brown, will try to say something constructive and appropriate. It'd be interesting to hear from someone who he's called...

[edit on 31/5/08 by Ste2652]