UKIP does indeed have both left and right tendencies - on some issues it is clearly to the left of Labour. This might be a problem for the London media but it isn't for the voters.
UKIP is stealing important weapons in the progressive armoury, and Labour seems powerless to respond, almost losing a safe seat in a by-election. Now, in the weekend after that vote, UKIP is apparently in discussion with a sitting Labour MP who is considering defecting.
Current rules give smaller parties like the Greens and National Health Action Party little chance to break through - could a few small changes breathe fresh air into Britain's failing political system?
Posing as folksy patriots, UKIP are in fact Atlanticist Thatcherites who may not like the EU making our laws but are perfectly happy to watch us ruled by global corporations in the form of 'trade deals'.
A new national pastime now exists thanks to the existence and rise of Ukip. But even if they win the Euro elections we must be careful in which conclusions we draw, particularly in Scotland.
UKIP is a work in progress. Its membership is among the most receptive to policies which many see as left wing, and its structure will almost inevitably encourage policy initiatives which reflect this. A new book, ‘Revolt on the right’, has started the process of making this understood.
The immigration debate is about more than jobs and taxes; it is about the small everyday changes that people feel are undermining their sense of belonging. It should not be left to UKIP alone to speak on these issues.
Politicans are stoking fears and tensions because they are powerless to do anything of substance. This is the worst of all worlds. It is cynical, irresponsible, inflammatory and exposes a major democratic deficit.
