BBC NewsBorrowing was £17.4bn last month, the second highest October figure since monthly records began in 1993.
Michael Gove
As we approach the UK elections, there’s a prevailing sense of pessimism. Many are already declaring the election a foregone conclusion, pointing to Labour’s 20-point lead in the polls. Yet, history has shown that polls can be deceptive. In 2017, the Conservatives were well ahead, but the final result was much closer. The party even had to govern with the support of the DUP.
Overcoming the Inevitable Narrative
It’s easy to assume that Labour’s current lead means the election is decided. However, there’s still plenty we can do to turn things around. We must ensure that Labour faces the scrutiny they have avoided for the past few years. It’s time to highlight the weaknesses in their policies and challenge their lack of substance.
The key to success is focusing on what we’ve already achieved. For example, the education reforms that the Conservative-led government introduced in the early years were met with criticism. Critics said they wouldn’t work. Yet, more than a decade later, we see improvements in school standards, particularly for disadvantaged children. Under our leadership, more students from low-income backgrounds are attending top universities than ever before.
Building a Manifesto Based on Hope
The next step is to build a manifesto centered on hope and opportunity. We need to show the next generation that they can acquire capital, purchase homes, and build a prosperous future. Our economic policies should prioritize infrastructure development, industry liberation, and a tax system that rewards hard work. These measures will ensure that we continue to make progress and foster long-term success.
It’s crucial that voters understand the risks associated with a Labour government. Labour’s policies are often unclear or problematic. If they take power, the progress made in the last 13 years could be undone. We need to expose these dangers and present the election as a choice between extending opportunity or risking everything we’ve built.
One key example of the Conservatives’ success is the welfare system. The introduction of Universal Credit was contentious, but it has proven to be effective. During the Covid-19 pandemic, the system allowed the government to help those in need quickly and efficiently. In contrast, under Labour between 1997 and 2010, unemployment rose by a million. Under Conservative leadership, we’ve created over a million new jobs. The ultimate goal is to help people achieve independence, not create a dependency on the state.
Communicating a Clear Vision
A common criticism of the Conservative Party is that we often come across as administrators rather than visionaries. We need to address this. Politicians must have a clear, compelling narrative. They should explain why difficult decisions are necessary and what kind of future they are working toward. This election provides the opportunity to create and communicate that vision for the future.
The public is busy and may not always follow intricate policy discussions. During the Brexit referendum, the slogan “Take Back Control” resonated with voters because it was simple and clear. We need to find similar straightforward messages for the UK elections that resonate with voters and can be unpacked to address specific issues.
Economic issues, such as rising inflation and interest rates, will impact the election. As inflation rises, borrowing becomes more difficult, especially for potential homeowners and businesses. In the housing market, builders are hesitant to construct new homes during economic uncertainty. To address this, we must reform the planning system to streamline approval for new housing projects, particularly on brownfield sites.
Reforming the Planning System
The planning system in the UK elections has long been a source of frustration. Local authorities are often resistant to new developments, particularly in areas like London. We need to create incentives for local governments to approve housing projects. By doing so, we can address the housing crisis while improving communities.
The emphasis on quantity over quality in housing development is a major issue. Developers should focus on making new homes beautiful and integrated into their surroundings. Take Poundbury, for example. Although it faced criticism from architects, it has proven successful. Homes there are worth more than those in nearby Dorchester. This shows that good design creates value and enhances communities.
As we reflect on our past, we must acknowledge our mistakes and learn from them. However, it’s equally important to recognize and communicate our successes. We need to be transparent with the electorate about what we’ve achieved and the values that guide us.
The Lack of a Labour Vision
Keir Starmer and Labour have yet to present a clear vision for the country. They lack a well-defined platform or a cohesive plan for the future. This gives the Conservatives a unique opportunity to present a clear alternative: a government focused on extending opportunity and building a prosperous future for all.
The UK elections will be a tough battle, but the Conservatives have the chance to win. By focusing on our achievements, crafting a hopeful manifesto, and exposing the risks of a Labour government, we can win the support of the electorate. With time, effort, and the right strategy, we can secure a victory in the upcoming election.
