Political journalist Michael Crick joins host Adam Fleming to dissect the intricate process of how candidates are selected in the UK election. They delve into the importance of local candidates, strategies politicians use, and the impact of initiatives like the all women's shortlists in the Labour Party
Candidates for UK elections undergo rigorous selection processes with varying party requirements.
Local ties and representation in UK elections limit candidate options and discourage past strategies of contesting multiple seats.
Deep dives
Selection Process for Political Candidates
Political parties have distinct processes for selecting candidates, ranging from applying to being on an approved list. Conservatives and Lib Dems require approval and assessments, while Labour allows applications from party members. The selection involves long and short lists, consultation between national and local parties, and different methods like selection meetings or hustings with online voting. The emphasis on local ties reduces the choice of candidates and favors former or current councillors.
Evolution of Political Candidate Selection
Historically, candidates would contest multiple seats, but now there is a shift towards local representation. The significance of being local limits the options for aspiring MPs, preferring those with connections to the area. Past strategies of losing in less favorable contests before securing a winnable seat are decreasing, unlike previous prominent politicians like Blair and Cameron who once followed this path.
Influence of Selection Procedures in Elections
Tactical voting and the influence of candidate campaigning play crucial roles in elections. The process of earning experience and skills through multiple attempts, as seen with various politicians, underscores the importance of campaigning strategies. Procedures like open primaries aim to improve candidate quality, yet can sometimes lack substantial political depth, emphasizing the campaigning prowess over ideological differences.