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A Labour MP on the doorstep

With Labour predicted a catastrophic election result come June 8, many MPs are resorting to rather desperate tactics in a bid to cling on to their seat. So, Mr S was curious to learn of an encounter a comrade experienced over the weekend.

At an address in one of the capital’s marginal constituencies, a canvasser was handing out leaflets with the local Labour MP, who was knocking on doors nearby, but sadly unavailable for a chat. ‘Ah what a shame, I’m a swing voter,’ mused the occupier, and closed the door. Predictably, the MP was there within a few minutes.

It was an enthusiastic if hacky pitch from the MP, until this ‘swing voter’ expressed scepticism that Jeremy Corbyn would make a good prime minister. The reply:

Labour MP: Don’t worry, if you’re leaning towards the Tories, you’ll get your Conservative government, with Theresa May carrying on as prime minister… But when you get to the polling booth, vote for me to be your local representative. I’ll stand up for the people of this constituency on the issues that matter.

SV: But what about Corbyn?

Labour MP: Corbyn will be gone on June 9. Trust me. It will all change the next day.

It’s not the strongest message for the doorstep, is it? What’s more, while Mr S suspects the MP is right that Corbyn won’t be prime minister, Steerpike is less convinced that he’ll be gone come June 9.

Steerpike
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Steerpike

Steerpike is The Spectator's gossip columnist, serving up the latest tittle tattle from Westminster and beyond. Email tips to steerpike@spectator.co.uk or message @MrSteerpike

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