Return to centre: David Gauke wages war on Tory populism
Sep 27, 2023
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Former Justice Secretary David Gauke discusses the need to reverse Tory populism in his book 'The Case for the Centre Right'. He highlights the dangers of pursuing further populism, questions the facilitation of Boris Johnson by the conservative party, and explores the challenges in finding a space as a centrist centre right party.
The centre right must recognize the changing demographics and avoid pursuing populism or nationalism.
The centre right should adapt its policies based on what is right for the country, driven by evidence and valuing institutions and international partnerships.
Deep dives
The Need for a New Vision for the Centre Right
The podcast discusses the importance of presenting a new vision for the centre right in current political circumstances. With looming elections and debates about the future of the conservative party, there is a need to avoid falling into the trap of pursuing populism or nationalism. The centre right must recognize that the population is becoming more educated, liberal, and internationalist. A strong economy, pro-business approaches, evidence-driven decision-making, and recognition of the importance of institutions and a practical relationship with the EU are essential for the success of the centre right.
Adapting to Changing Circumstances for Centre Right Politics
The podcast emphasizes the need for the centre right to adapt its policies to changing circumstances. It is clear that public services need proper funding and that a more interventionist approach to the economy is popular. However, the centre right should start from the perspective of what is right for the country and avoid pursuing policies solely based on past successes. An approach that recognizes trade-offs, is driven by evidence, and values institutions and international partnerships can still appeal to the electorate while delivering a strong economy and good public services.
Appealing to Politically Homeless Voters
The podcast highlights the importance of appealing to politically homeless voters who feel that the Conservative Party has moved away from their values and performance in office. The aim is to engage those who want a thoughtful approach and have concerns about the direction of right-wing politics. By presenting a set of values and policies that reflect liberal center-right politics, the centre right can re-emerge as a place of ideas and provide a credible alternative to the current nationalist and populist trend. The goal is to attract new supporters and ensure the success of the Conservative Party in the modern political landscape.
For a few years now the Tory party has been drifting further and further right and it’s not gone well… at all. David Gauke is the former Justice Secretary under Theresa May and has edited a book titled The Case for the Centre Right which highlights the desperate need to reverse the direction of his party back to the centre. But is there a real case for the centre right anymore? Marie Le Conte sits down with him in The Bunker to listen to his argument.
“Arguably this is a case that should’ve been made much earlier.” – David Gauke
“Now I think is the time to say let’s not go further down the line of pursuing populism.” – David Gauke.
“I think when you look at it Boris Johnson should not have been facilitated by the Conservative Party… they knew what they were getting.” – David Gauke
Written and presented by Marie Le Conte. Producer: Chris Jones. Music by Kenny Dickinson. Audio production: Robin Leeburn. Managing Editor: Jacob Jarvis. Group Editor: Andrew Harrison. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production