[Jack_]

Originally Posted by parmnion

Labour would need the dup too if they were to form a coalition.

In theory yes but it's not essential. If May's Queen's Speech does not pass, then as the official opposition Labour are invited to attempt to form a government and do the same.

This is where it's interesting. Do moderate (LGB) Tories uncomfortable with being propped up by the DUP, vote down the QS but risk putting Corbyn into number ten? All it takes is eight abstentions, noes or crossing the floor and they lose their working majority. The same applies for confidence motions. Which of their principals are more important to them?

So, in the event of a Labour QS, Tory MPs would be faced with a choice: abstain or even vote it up, handing Corbyn the keys, or vote it down and stare another general election in the face, while their party is in disarray. In this scenario Labour actually have the upper hand. There are further problems though, and this is why I'm not sure it's the best strategy for Labour. Say they attempt to govern as a minority, the Tories can then be difficult and vote down legislation in an attempt to show him up as ineffective. Or, alternatively, they abstain and leave him be for the foreseeable, expecting the Brexit negotiations to be a disaster, giving them attack lines on a plate ready for the next election.

I expect May's QS to pass but how long can this go on for? It's unworkable.