Bola - you should know that Billy Bragg is an SXP untouchable and cannot be criticised. You're sacked!
Although I'm not the greatest fan of Billy Bragg, I think that Billy is being consistent with previous statements and that criticism of Bill from his fans is unjustified. Oona King is worth supporting, not least because she's one symbol of our diverse population in the all too white, all too male House of Commons. If the seat is marginal, I'd rather than people got behind Oona than oppose her and possibly hand the seat to someone else. You don't need me to point out that there are enough racists in Tower Hamlets who won't vote for her and we don't want to give them any succour.
I also don't think it represents a shift in Billy's position on the war - I'm sure he still supports tactical voting where it sends a message to the Government over issues such as the war but not at the expense of losing a seat to the opposition. Galloway's just a cheap political opportunist, which is why I don't think he's worthy of support.
Your point about an honour is an interesting one. Bill has made a number of proposals about creating a more representative upper chamber to replace the House of Lords. In such a set-up post election, is it so fanciful to see him taking a seat as a representative of the working class? Lord Bill, anyone?
