Coffee House Shots Does British politics reward traitors or faithfuls?
Jan 23, 2026
In this engaging discussion, Richard Johnson, an expert in British political history, and Danny Finkelstein, a Conservative peer with SDP roots, explore the complex dynamics of party defections. They analyze historical examples, revealing that success often hinges on a defector’s new party's stature. Danny shares his personal journey, highlighting the cultural shifts within parties. The duo also delves into the current weakening of party identities, illustrating how today’s defections mirror past trends, driven by ambition and changing political landscapes.
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Defection Outcomes Depend On Destination
- Defecting to a major party usually rewards you with senior positions, while moving to a minor party often ends careers quickly.
- Historical cases like Churchill and Sean Woodward contrast with SDP and Change UK defectors who fared poorly.
Joining Conservatives After SDP Collapse
- Danny Finkelstein describes how the SDP collapse made his move to the Conservatives feel different from a typical defection.
- He recalls adjusting to the Conservatives' larger organisation and changing party culture over time.
Labour Sees Defection As Moral Betrayal
- Breaching party loyalty carries a moral stigma, especially within Labour which views itself as a movement or church.
- That moral framing makes defections feel like betrayal beyond mere policy disagreement.