LONDON: Drinkers at a pub near the skyscrapers of the London's financial district toasted indications that Britain could be headed for a second government led by Prime Minister David Cameron on Friday.
As an exit poll showed his centre-right Conservative party ahead and results began to filter through, the drink was flowing as one of Britain's many election night parties got underway.
The mood was upbeat at the Draft House, a bar in the heart of the City of London, the financial and historical centre of the capital and traditionally a stronghold of Conservative support as well as a key source of donors for the party during the campaign.
"I voted for the Conservatives because Labour is not competent on financial matters," said Ben Woodthorpe, 39, as he sipped a beer.
"It's very exciting because it's too close to call."
Several fellow City workers shouted "Hooray!" as a television screen flashed up the exit poll showing Cameron set to take more seats than predicted -- albeit just short of an outright majority.
There were smiles all round as several drinkers gave victory signs.
"Why would you change? The economy is doing well after five years with the Conservatives," said City worker Grant.
Polls up to the eve of the election had indicated the vote would be one of Britain's closest in decades, but the exit poll confounded expectations by showing the Labour party of Ed Miliband losing seats.
Comments
Comments are closed.