I question the idea that new players have disappeared from Lincoln. Labor just elected a fine new councilman in KaiserDave and a few months ago Lincoln Labor elected the newbie Mimoha. This is no less than any other party has put up and the current players are no less the lifeblood of the game than new ones. I ask why do you say that new player are disappearing due to Labor?
Simply put Labour dominance has consolidated power into a small group of party elites who are well established in the game, new players may still join but lack any influence or activity unless they toe the party line.