Hung Parliment: good or bad?

It seems the election endures for months but we can finally see the finish line. Ironically, neither of the parties look like reaching the finish line. When this happens - as in 1974 - no one party is seen fit enough to lead the country and there is a hung Parliament.

Attitudes differ towards a hung parliament, for instance, Margaret Thatcher thought they were a drag. In a hung parliament any policy or bill proposed by the government will have to be voted for by the other parties. Nick Clegg becomes an important ally for either Labour or Conservatives when this happens. That extra lib-dem power in seat numbers could make all the difference.

All the latest polls show the Conservatives galloping ahead while Labour favour increases slightly with the Liberal Democrats losing some support. Unimaginable, but Gordon Brown seems to be doing better in light of the 'Bigot gate' gaffe.

But Tories can always rely on support from money. Certain newspapers took a recess from journalism on the eve of the final TV debate and, instead, saturated its pages with pro- conservative, anti-clegg, propaganda in a real subtle show of who pays their wages.

Whatever happens this Thursday the sheer amount of interest generated must help people to decide where they stand on politics. Whether they have leanings towards a particular party's ideals or just a frank detachment with politics altogether. Once over, people can get on with their lives and what is most important to them - like family and friends. But a general election like this one is good to keep the politicians on their toes.