Robert Saunders

Robert Saunders, a UK elections expert, dives into the pitfalls of allowing party members to choose their leaders. He discusses how this shift has warped British democracy, spotlighting figures like Jeremy Corbyn and Liz Truss. The conversation highlights the historical evolution of leadership selection in Labour and Conservative parties, revealing the tension between grassroots members and parliamentary representation. Saunders also proposes alternatives like open primaries, questioning the legitimacy of the current system and its impact on political stability.

Historian Robert Saunders discusses the 1997 UK General Elections, exploring why Tories didn't get credit for a strong economy, New Labour's impact on campaigning, and the election's effect on proportional representation. They also ponder the significance of the Millennium Dome.

Historian Robert Saunders discusses the pivotal 1979 UK election that brought Margaret Thatcher to power. They explore what might have happened if the election was called earlier, the concept of Thatcherism, and the Labour party's struggles post-Thatcher. Bonus episode on the 1924 election available on PPF+

Historian Robert Saunders discusses the 1945 UK General Election, Churchill's post-war fate, Labour's radical program, and Attlee's leadership. The podcast explores wartime influences, economic policies, Labour party factions, election strategies, and post-election challenges.

Historian Robert Saunders discusses the 1906 UK General Elections with a focus on the Tory disaster and Liberal triumph. The episode explores the reasons behind the Conservative Party's worst result, the Liberals' landslide victory, the election slogan 'Big Loaf, Little Loaf', and the forgotten Prime Minister Henry Campbell-Bannerman.