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Progressively taking soundings

The Guardian this morning says:

“Keir Starmer to launch progressive fightback against ‘decline and division’ fuelled by far right”

I can see the OED having to reassess its  definition of the word “progressive” soon. More work for them — they’re already busy modifying “change”.

Anyway,

“Senior sources said Starmer had begun to spend significantly more time taking soundings from MPs … As well as spending time last week in the voting lobbies and tea rooms with MPs, Starmer hosted a delegation for breakfast in No 10 on Monday morning.”

I get why he would go to the tea rooms — taking soundings is thirsty work. And there’s no substitute for a traditional (English) breakfast to get you off on the right foot. But the lobbies? I thought you just went there to vote. Unless this is a bullying operation: “No, Richard, you’re in the wrong lobby. You want the progressive lobby.” It’ll get Keir nowhere though. Richard Burgon, the honourable member for Leeds East, knows the meaning of “honourable ”.

More work for the OED, though. On the definition of “taking soundings”!

https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2025/sep/23/keir-starmer-to-launch-progressive-fightback-against-decline-and-division-fuelled-by-far-right


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