Have the Tory leadership candidates got a Truss problem?
Sep 30, 2024
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Jeremy Hunt, a former Chancellor, discusses the challenges facing the Conservative Party, emphasizing the need to reconnect with voters. He addresses economic instability and critiques Labour's stance. Kate Andrews offers insights into the political landscape, while Isabel Hardman analyzes the residual impact of Liz Truss's leadership. The trio explores fiscal policy discomfort among Tory candidates and the difficulties they face in moving past Truss's contentious mini-budget, balancing grassroots support against the party's evolving image.
Jeremy Hunt emphasizes the need for the Conservative party to focus on long-term strategies and regain public trust amidst economic challenges.
Liz Truss remains a polarizing figure within the Conservative party, complicating efforts to establish a unified leadership direction forward.
Deep dives
Jeremy Hunt's Strategy Against Labour
Jeremy Hunt is actively countering the Labour government's narrative, particularly concerning the alleged £22 billion black hole in the economy. He argues that Labour's criticism lacks credibility, suggesting even they do not fully believe their claims, especially in relation to the winter fuel payment issue. Hunt goes further by warning that Labour's potential policies, like changes to capital gains tax, could deter investment and harm the economy. His efforts indicate a strategic focus on rebuilding trust in the Conservative party while directly challenging Labour's approach.
Facing Internal Party Challenges
Hunt acknowledges the difficult realities faced by the Conservative party and emphasizes the need for self-reflection regarding past decisions. He highlights that party members recognize the seriousness of the current economic situation and understand that the public finances do not add up. Hunt's message serves as a call for the party to avoid short-term targeting of specific voter groups and instead address broader national interests. This perspective aims to unify the party’s approach in tackling its trust issues with the electorate.
The Ongoing Legacy of Liz Truss
Liz Truss continues to be a contentious figure within the Conservative party, with her previous tenure serving as a constant reminder of the party's challenges. During the conference, she claimed that she would have secured more seats than current Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, which sparked debate over her impact on the party's current standing. This sentiment illustrates the struggle the Conservative leadership faces in distancing itself from Truss's controversial policies while attempting to move forward. The divide within the party regarding her agenda complicates efforts to present a united front as they navigate the political landscape.
Jeremy Hunt is one of the few Tories at Conservative Party Conference willing to take the fight to Labour. In the second day, he sat down for an on-stage interview where the former Chancellor spoke about the winter fuel allowance, freebies, but also made some polite suggestions about where the Conservative party should go, and dropped a few hints about the former Prime Minister, Liz Truss. Natasha Feroze speaks to Kate Andrews and Isabel Hardman about Hunt's speech and some of the best bits from Liz Truss's own interview at conference.
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