5 responses to “Labour needs bloggers – but doesn’t seem to know it”
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Maybe it’s because blogging promotes transparency and they fear the lack of control over comments and feedback. Do they really want to hear what people say? social media is a great tool for opposition, but Government doesn’t seem able to handle it in a way to connect with the electorate. It’s a missed opportunity for them.
Have you seen Michael Meacher’s blog, he is a former minister who has been rumoured to want to stand for leadership, maybe he is hoping it will get his message over:
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Hi Anthony
Here’s a snippet from an email I received thirteen months ago.“We are currently satisfied by the media and new media presence of our Labour politicians”
You said. “I fear Labour will probably not embrace new media…”
Obviously somebody there thinks they have already!
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It’s important that political parties start looking at blogs as a key comms tool… but I worry that too many – especially within Labour – think that blogs are a cure all to public engagement.
I would argue that to re-engage with voters a radical change in political attitude is necessary. This needs to reflect current cultural values such as openness and transparency – values that can be facilitated by social media. Have a butchers at: http://simoncollister.typepad.com/simonsays/2006/09/politics_needs_.html
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Thanks for the link, Ellee. I think you’re right about social media working for you in opposition better – you’ve everything to win and want to attack on every front. When you’re in power you
Reading this article – http://www.economist.com/world/britain/displaystory.cfm?story_id=7950099 – in the Economist this morning I also wondered if the younger demographic people assume bloggers / social media users also made it less of a priority in the eyes of those planning Labour’s communications.
Neil – that’s interesting to hear. It actually mirrors attitudes for many in communications and media. They think because they have website, email press releases and get online coverage in mainstream media that they “have it covered”.
Simon – I agree that substance is also required! Cheers for the link too…
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Gordon Brown needs to embrace blogs
It is near certain Brown will be the Prime Minister by next year. (I do not have a problem with this). Almost immediately his eyes will be on the General Election in 2009/10 because, given he has waited a decade for the top prize, he will want it for l…
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