Sorry, I can't accept that.
From '83 to '87, Labour were for long spells vying with the SDP for 3rd place in the polls. It was only when Kinnock spoke out against champagne socialist Derek Hatton and his militant cronies in Liverpool, at the party conference in '85, that the party challeneged the conservatives in the polls.
Certainly, in the run-up to the election, after a hugely damaging by-election reverse in Greenwich, it was obvious Kinnock was in no position to defeat Thatcher. It was only a very polished election campaign headed by Bryan Gould that ensured they finished second. In no way was Kinnock in a vastly stronger position.
In '92, when he undeniably was, and despite the media hyperbole, the most Labour were actually hoping for, among party workers and activists at least in any case, was a hung parliament.
The reason for this was shadow chancellor John Smith's taxation proposals, especially on national insurance contributions, as well as the lack of statesmanship-like qualities from Kinnock.
People were angry with Major's government but, deep down, most knew this wouldn't be reflected at the ballot box. Better the devil you know and that.
In short, Kinnock was in no position to win in '87, and in '92, despite his own weaknesses, his own party ensured he went into battle, against an opponent on the ropes, with a tickling stick.
