The Intelligence from The Economist Things fall apart: Britain’s fading centre-right
Sep 10, 2019
John Peete, Brexit editor at The Economist, discusses the turmoil within Britain's Conservative Party, shedding light on the recent expulsions and resignations that have weakened its foundation. He analyzes Brexit's far-reaching impact, highlighting a shift towards hard-right ideologies. Meanwhile, John Priddo, the U.S. editor, provides insights from North Carolina's special election, revealing demographic shifts and the significance of Trump’s influence on voter sentiment. The conversation also touches on the astounding human capacity for language, showcasing its creative potential.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Conservative Party Turmoil
- The UK Conservative Party is in turmoil due to Brexit, expelling members who oppose a no-deal scenario.
- This division reflects a broader struggle between remaining a moderate party or solely defining itself by Brexit.
Defining the Party's Future
- The Conservative Party's divisions over Brexit have become more pronounced.
- The party faces a dilemma: embrace a no-deal Brexit or remain a traditional center-right party.
Shifting Political Landscape
- The Conservative Party is drifting towards supporting a no-deal Brexit, a stance considered hard-right.
- Despite this, the party maintains some traditional center-right positions on issues like taxes and spending.
