Grassroots rebellions can be a good thing

As I told the Huffington Post about the relationship between Liberal Democrat Parliamentarians and grassroots activists:

I think the thing to bear in mind, Lib Dem parliamentarians quite like being pushed by the grassroots. If you go into negotiation with a Tory opposite number to try and push them on an issue, if you can publicly demonstrate to them that you’re under pressure – that makes your negotiating position stronger.

The party’s experience after the last spring conference was hugely helpful in terms of strengthening the party.

Of course, that’s but one way in which a strong grassroots can help with the party’s success.