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Coffee House Shots: Steve Baker on how to organise a successful rebellion

Jun 28, 2025
In this conversation, Steve Baker, a former Conservative MP and experienced political rebel, shares insights from his 14 years in Parliament. He discusses his roles in rebellions ranging from Brexit to COVID, highlighting the importance of personal communication to rally support. Baker critiques Labour's current strategies and emphasizes the need for compromise in political dynamics. He shares the emotional toll of dissent and argues that understanding the balance between loyalty and rebellion is crucial for any party's success.
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ANECDOTE

Steve Baker’s First Rebellion

  • Steve Baker's first rebellion was as a new MP against the EU, and he nervously told the chief whip he would rebel.
  • He learned early from Douglas Carswell the importance of deciding to rebel firmly and never folding under pressure.
ANECDOTE

Organizing The Brexit Rebellion

  • Steve Baker became the Brexit rebellion organizer, leading efforts that forced David Cameron to promise a referendum.
  • He vividly recalls Cameron's furious glare as they staged a major rebellion in the Commons.
ADVICE

Start Rebellions Personally

  • Rebellions must begin with direct, personal conversations, not impersonal messages.
  • Keeping the rebellion secret is key to prevent the whip's office breaking it apart early.
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