EXCLUSIVE: London Tory Youth Chairman Under Fire After 'Kitchen Cabinet' Coup.

BACKBITING and skullduggery are in order today for London Conservative Future (CF) it would seem. tbg can reveal that Leader Nabil Najjar has split his comprehensive executive leaving some members spitting feathers and others sensationally threatening to quit entirely.

tbg has acquired leaked emails which state the CF London Chairman asked most of the new executive to leave the room at the first meeting, calling what followed a "kitchen cabinet meeting".

The initial Kitchen Cabinet apparently only included some of the Chairman's closest confidants including Treasurer Richard Allen, but tbg can exclusively reveal that the London CF Kitchen Cabinet will now include 9 out of the 15 appointed officers:


London CF Leader Nabil Najjar exclusively responded to concerned Tory Youth members and told tbg - "London CF has, this year, brought on a new dynamic team of activists to form the Exec for the coming year. As with any organisation, as the size of the team grows, so to must the management structure.

"Under the new system, there will be a core team of the most senior members of the team, all of whom are very experienced both in CF and life in general. They will work with teams comprised of other exec members, working together on different projects - campaigning, membership etc.

"I will, of course, always be available to sit down with anyone on the team, and will continue to be involved in every aspect of the organisation, however I am confident that this will lead to greater support for individual officers and a more efficient network. It means each member of the team, especially the newer members, receives direct support and advice, and will ensure the whole system works effectively."

Farage Accepts Dorries' Tory/UKIP Joint Ticket.

Statement from UKIP Leader Nigel Farage on Nadine's joint ticket banter.

"If Nadine Dorries’ association come to me and say they’ve passed a resolution, and they want her to run as a joint candidate in 2015, I will go and ask my local association how they feel but my inclination would be, why not? What on earth is wrong with doing this?

"I would also say this could apply to other Tories too. It may even apply to one or two of the old Labour types as well’

"This... about Nadine, possibly talking about a joint ticket, is something that several more MPs may choose. Then of course, that will present quite a big challenge to Downing Street and David Cameron. Will be he prepared to accept this or not?" [Source]

EXCLUSIVE: Tory Youth Eastern Region Chair Candidate Thorpe-Apps sets out Stall and Slams Behind Doors Appointments.

TBG can today reveal the Andrew Thorpe-Apps is the second candidate who was rumoured to be in the running for Conservative Future (CF) Eastern Chairman. Today tbg confirms Thorpe-Apps' candidacy in an exclusive Q&A where Andrew sets out his vision for CF East.

What was for breakfast?

"I start the day with a bowl of Scott’s Porage Oats. I’m not one of these trendy low-fat yoghurt types."

TBG heard last week that you are the second candidate interested in the Eastern Region Leadership role, is there any truth to this?

"Yes, I’ve submitted an application for the role. I would have preferred a proper election as I believe it should be for Eastern CFers to decide, rather than a behind-doors appointment. But I’m happy that the vacancy is finally going to be filled. I put my name forward because, as the local elections showed, UKIP are particularly strong in the East. CF will need decisive leadership to enable the youth wing to make a difference in 2014 and 2015."

What would you like to achieve as Eastern CF Chairman?

"If elected, my immediate priority would be liaising with Regional Branch members to make sure the focus is on strategy, campaigning and increasing our membership. I will dedicate a certain number of hours each month to meeting members across the region. Some of my major plans are as follows:"

• "Regular strategy/action meetings – Meetings (either face-to-face or using social media) to discuss election and campaign strategy with Branch Chairmen across the region. This will allow for ideas and knowledge to be shared. 

• Election target map – Drawing on my previous work at CCHQ, I shall create an interactive online map – specifically tailored for the Eastern Region – showing marginal seats, using data from previous election results. This will be accessible by all Branch Chairmen in the region and shall allow for targeted campaigning in both 2014 and 2015. 

• Leading on charitable projects – I want to see Conservative Future leading the way when it comes to fundraising for worthy causes in the community. This plays into the Big Society. I will use my experience volunteering at the CAB and FRU (an organisation providing free legal advice) to encourage CF members to take part in similar activities. This will benefit the image of the Party in general.

•  Greater financial independence - More focus on organising fundraising events so that CF Branches have their own funds for future activities, without being wholly reliant on Constituency Associations. 

• Regular update bulletins – I shall send out regular email updates to members in the region, informing them of upcoming events and policy issues. 

• Joint ventures – I shall get in contact with other youth organisations in the region, an example being Young Farmers, and put forward the possibility of holding joint events. This would consequently mean that more high-profile guest speakers could be invited to branch meetings, and in turn this would encourage more people to join. 

• Universities as a key to recruitment – University Branches are crucial in the Party’s bid to attract more young members. Supporting ‘fresher fare’ events across the region will therefore be a priority. 

• Setting up new branches – I shall look out for opportunities to open new CF Branches. I have already set to work on establishing a branch in Chelmsford, Essex."

Do you think you have a good chance against your probable opponent Braintree Councillor Stephen Canning?

"I hope Stephen Canning does decide to stand. As a fellow Essex man, I supported Stephen in his recent bid for Deputy Chairman.

"In many ways, I am an outsider. I am relatively new to CF. I’m not up with the ins and outs of the London CF hierarchy. I also have no ambitions for an eventual role on the National Executive. For me, the role of Eastern Regional Chairman is not a stepping stone to ‘bigger things’ – it is my sole focus. My aim is to speak for the vast majority of young Conservatives – students and professionals alike – and create a strong team of activists across the East.

"Despite being a relative newcomer, I’ve had experience working in the Chairman’s Office at Conservative Campaign Headquarters, working alongside Grant Shapps MP. An interactive online campaign map I created at CCHQ was subsequently presented to Cabinet. I telecanvassed at CCHQ for the Eastleigh by-election, and gave up weekends and evenings to canvas and deliver leaflets during the local elections.

"My view is that the Eastern Region will need strong leadership over the next two years given that we have the European elections coming up in 2014 and the general election in 2015. The Regional Chairman will need to focus on strategy and be able to send out a clear message on matters such as Europe, immigration and equal marriage – issues on which UKIP seek to attract votes. I believe that I can deliver this."

Fav fizzy pop beverage?

"Don’t drink much pop these days. I do love a cool pint of English cider though."

How do you feel the new Tory Youth National Executive is getting on?

"It’s too early to comment, but I have a lot of confidence in the new National Executive. I know that Sarah-Jane Sewell and Rob Manning are both incredibly committed activists. I also believe that Oliver Cooper will give us strong leadership, which will be vital over the next couple of years.

"As long as the National Executive focuses on the main task at hand – supporting the main Party and campaigning for a Conservative majority in 2015 – they will have my support."

Do you think UKIP might seriously affect Tory chances in the East, especially after UKIP activists told TBG they are now basically targeting parts of the country with weak political leadership?

"If we are complacent about UKIP, it will come back to bite us at future elections. I don’t agree that they can be brushed aside as simply a ‘protest vote’. When I was at the local election count in Chelmsford, I saw the UKIP surge at first hand. They now have Councillors across the Eastern Region, and even form the official opposition in Norfolk.

"I don’t want the Conservative Party to respond by lurching to the right, but I do want us to listen to the concerns of people on the doorstep. If we say we’re in favour of ‘localism’, let’s prove it.

"UKIP can be defeated more easily than most people realise. UKIP’s main concern is the EU. But when I speak to people, the EU is rarely mentioned. Instead, people are concerned about immigration, unemployment and the cost of living. The Conservative Party has strong policies in these areas, and it is our duty to explain this. Positive and constructive arguments will beat UKIP’s negative scaremongering every time.

"UKIP will certainly be targeting the Eastern Region. That is why we can’t afford to sit back and be complacent. Everything we do should be geared toward the upcoming elections. Signing up new members, taking part in charitable fundraising, holding a range of debates – these are the things we should be focusing on, even in the smallest Branches.

"Despite what I’ve read over recent months, I don’t agree that the previous Eastern Chairman was a ‘weak’ leader. But the political landscape has changed dramatically, presenting new challenges for Conservatives. What worked last year will not be suitable in 2013 or 2014. In the East we need activism, not managerialism."

E.U. – In or Out?

"I believe that European nations are stronger when they work together. It’s difficult to see how Britain, France or Germany can compete with the rising BRIC countries on their own. It is also crucial that Britain retains access to the Single Market. The reality is that the Single Market cannot function properly without some degree of political integration.

"UKIP often cite Norway in arguing that we can leave the EU and remain part of the Single Market. Whilst this is true, we would continue to have to make contributions to the EU budget, we would be bound by the majority of Common Market Regulations, and we would have no voice at the table. So, for pragmatic reasons, I support British membership of the EU.

"That said, I also support having a referendum on EU membership. In my opinion, the EU is falling short of its potential and needs reform. It has become too bureaucratic and intrudes on too many aspect of daily life. So we should see this as an opportunity to change the EU and get it serving our interests better."

'David Cameron can no Longer be Trusted'.

Well done to all of the MPs who voted for the amendment expressing concern at the lack of an EU Referendum in the Queen's Speech.

At least some people stand by their promises and stand up for their constituents.

However, as a former Conservative Member who has recently jumped ship to UKIP I am of the opinion that David Cameron can no longer be trusted.

If the Government can bring forward legislation on Gay Marriage then they can do the same with an EU Referendum.

Labour Lead Tumbles to Just Three Points.

LABOUR'S lead over the Conservatives has today shrunk to its lowest level since the 2010 election. It stands at just three points according to Ipsos Mori.

Interestingly, the rise in Tory support to 31% coincides with a similar rise in economic optimism to 30%.

Labour 34%
Conservatives 31%
UKIP 13%
Lib Dems 10%

In a separate poll it seems as though euro scepticism is growing on the continent as well as in Britain. The percentage of Europeans with a favourable view of the E.U has fallen from 60% to 45%.

Amazingly, France which entered a triple dip recession yesterday, is now more sceptical than Britain.

EXCLUSIVE: UKIP Official Gareth Shanks set to Defect to Tory Party.

Card is no more, YI's big beast is turning Blue

BATTERED & BRUISED from his UKIP experience after having been rejected to an elected role by UKIP bosses to then be forced out as UKIP Friends Of Palestine Chairman, tbg can reveal that Gareth Shanks is rumoured to be joining the Conservative Party.

It is thought Shanks wants to voice his UKIP disaster to help "expose" the anti-EU Party as an intolerant bunch incapable of intellectual thought.

Former UKIP Youth Chairman Olly Neville whom was sacked by UKIP bosses for his support of gay marriage exclusively told tbg - "Shanks is a hero. A more loyal or dedicated activist you could not ask for. If UKIP hadnt alienated its youth base he could have done great things for them.

"His elections planning is excellent and his trolling is superb. If he is going blue its for the right reasons not career ones."

"I wish him the best. He'll keep things interesting. What a beast" - Neville added.

Nadine Dorries Wants to Stand on Tory/UKIP Ticket.

CONTROVERSIAL Rebel Tory MP Nadine Dorries has tonight sensationally openly flirted with the idea of standing on a joint Tory-UKIP ticket.

Just days after being given back the Conservative ship in what was seen as a panic measure by Tory Central Office and with MPs tonight debating the EU Referendum amendment its the last thing David Cameron needs.

In an article for ConservativeHome, the man exclusively tipped by tbg to be one of the rebels has said that the electorate "are one step ahead" on the issue of an EU Referendum and that they are not prepared to wait another four years.

Martin Vickers says he is proud to be a euro-sceptic and has called for the Referendum to be held sooner rather than later.

A Tory spokesperson told tbg this was - "Not party policy and it's not going to happen".

UPDATE - Tory backbench rebels amendment expressing concern and regret at EU referendum not being mentioned in the Queens Speech has been defeated in the House of Commons.

277 MP's voted against the amendment to 130 after the chamber debate. 114 Tories backed the bill against the wishes of David Cameron.

The Prime Minister has announced a draft EU referendum bill to legislate for a vote in 2017 after renegotiation talks.

UPDATE - Farage Accepts Dorries' Tory/UKIP Joint Ticket

EXCLUSIVE: DASHTory Hyatt Defects to Lib Dems.

DASH-Coalition

FOLLOWING yesterdays blockbuster resignation in the London Tory Party by founding member of Ealing Conservative Future and local council candidate for the 2014 Election in Ealing, tbg can exclusively reveal that Dean Hyatt will now sensationally join the Liberal Democrats.

LY = Liberal Youth

The now former London Conservative Future Campaign Secretary has updated his Twitter profile to say he is now an aspiring Lib Dem and his blog states - "Current Fight, introducing Classical Liberalism back into the Liberal Democrats".

Hyatt spoke out exclusively to tbg today saying - "First off I would like to say thanks to everyone who welcomed me into the party especially Ben Howlett’s and I’m sorry about my bitter letter.

"I did not mean nearly what context shown through, mostly written in aggravation, the other before a send off. Note also I act as an individual not ‘as’ a ‘classical liberal’ - like all ideologies, opinion and actions vary.

"The biggest problem I have at this time is management of my activity of such timings. I would most prefer being a normal member of a party then taking lead. So in this in mind I may turn another corner later (Justification is a problem) [sic].

"For now I’m just going to do some proper blogging!".

One Tory Youth member commented - "Who does he think he is! Paul Seery?! Nobody will be the leafleting machine that was Paul Seery, I miss that guy. #OnlyOnePaulSeery"

Cameron Bows to EU Referendum Pressure.

David Cameron has tonight sensationally thrown in the towel to his euro-sceptic rebels.

Downing Street has just confirmed that a Draft Bill for an E.U Referendum after the next election will be published tomorrow.

Basildon MP John Baron has just exclusively told tbg that "it's a step in the right direction."

Cheryl Gillan told the BBC - "We need to restore faith and trust in the Conservative Party via an in or out referendum."

Nadine Dorries said - "It shows the PM is listening but what is worrying is that we are still stuck in a 2017 Timeframe."

"If we can bring forward measures for things like Gay Marriage then why can't we legislate on this before the General Election."

A Tory Party spokesperson told tbg the draft bill - "Is apart of the Prime Ministers Conservative Party policy to renegotiate membership terms with the UK & EU and put that deal to a public in-or-out referendum in 2017. That is Conservative Party policy."