Tuesday 29th December 2009

With 2010 just days away, I thought I would get my crystal ball out and gaze into the future. Here are my predictions for the next year, just a bit of fun...

Politics
Gordon Brown calls a general election to be held on the first Thursday of May, which the Conservatives win with 327 seats, an overall majority, but only just enough to form a government. This election is significant as it sees the most new MPs enter the House of Commons in its a history, a repurcussion of the 2009 expenses scandal which infuriated voters. Also as a result of the scandal, a number of Independent MPs are elected to the house.
After defeat, Gordon Brown stands aside as leader of the Labour party and endorses Ed Balls as his successor. However, with the support of Alan Johnson, Jack Straw and Peter Mandelson, it is David Miliband who is chosen as leader of the opposition.
The Liberal Democrats gain a few seats, but this is not enough to save Nick Clegg and he is forced to stand down as leader and replaced by Vince Cable.
Cameron's government prove to be popular until the end of the year, when Chancellor of the Exchequer George Osborne announces savage public spending cuts while offering generous tax breaks for the wealthy in his Pre-Budget report. As a result, the Tories opinion poll rating slides dramatically and David Cameron has no choice but to axe his ally Osborne in favour of the more experienced Ken Clarke.

World Cup in South Africa
England ease through the early stages of the tournament with wins in all three of their group games against USA, Algeria and Slovenia. However, Fabio Capello's men struggle in their second round match with Ghana, eventually progressing thanks to a Wayne Rooney goal in extra time. In the quarter finals, England produce their best performance to beat France and set up a semi final showdown with Brazil. Once again though, its penalty heart ache, as the Brzilians win on spot kicks then go on to beat Spain in the final to be crowned world champions for the sixth time. However, England can go home with their heads held high and Wayne Rooney is identified as one of the tournament's best players.

I wonder just how right I shall be. 2010 is going to be an interesting year for sure.