British election should be an easy call

Tomorrow, Britons will vote for a new government. By all accounts, the Tories will return to power after more than a decade of Labour. This election is easier to call than the U.S. election in 2008. Similarities are overwhelming: an unpopular incumbent/party, an economy in the doldrums, calls for change or new directions in domestic and foreign policy. Gordon Brown will not because almost nobody likes him, and everyone sees him as an ineffective leader. Nick Clegg, the Liberal Democrat, has made this election interesting and may cause some swing or surprise results. Nonetheless, Cameron has had a steady campaign with a palatable platform that addresses Britons' key worries: the economy and jobs. Some claim that Liberal Democrats and Labour votes will team up just to deprive the Conservatives of victory, but I do not see it happening. The only question is how big (or small) of a parliamentary majority the Tories will enjoy after the election.

Britons rightfully demand more from Parliament, especially after years of corruption among many MPs. A hung parliament, where no party enjoys a sizable majority, is a distinct possibility. I think it might be a good thing. A hung parliament may encourage parties to compromise and will put more pressure and accountability on individual MPs. Britain, like America in 2008, seriously needs change and reform in the economy, NHS and relations with Europe. I do not find the Conservatives' platform too enticing, nor do I find it unwholesome. What Britain needs is a government committed to tackling its many problems and fostering long term economic growth. The Conservatives look like a good bet. We'll see how they turn out in five years.