Economist Podcasts Misplaced Truss? Britain’s ruling party meets
Oct 4, 2022
Matthew Hullhouse, a British political correspondent for The Economist, and Arkady Ostrovsky, the Russia editor for The Economist, engage in a spirited discussion about the turmoil within the Conservative Party amidst Liz Truss’s rocky start. They dissect how economic instability and a contentious budget have shaken public support for the Tories. Meanwhile, Ostrovsky analyzes Putin’s recent partial mobilization and the unexpected backlash it has generated in Russia. The conversation also touches on the ethical dilemmas in naming species after controversial figures.
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Truss's Rocky Start
- Liz Truss's first weeks as Prime Minister have been tumultuous, marked by policy U-turns and plummeting poll numbers.
- The Conservative Party conference is a venue for soul-searching among members.
Conservative Party Turnover
- The Conservative Party has had four prime ministers in 12 years, leading to exhaustion and friction.
- Many MPs, aware they won't hold office again, have become disinhibited and rebellious.
Putin's Mobilization Strategy
- Vladimir Putin's partial mobilization aims to replenish depleted troops and bolster support for the war.
- By portraying the war as a global attack on Russia, Putin seeks to stir patriotic sentiment.