The speaker reflects on a seismic shift in UK politics that started with the fundamental moment of the 2016 EU referendum. This transformation impacted the basis of political competition, making the Conservatives the party supporting leaving the EU. The consequence has continued to influence vote choices in subsequent elections like in 2017 and 2019. The ongoing economic crisis and current political climate are seen as the aftermath of this significant shift. The discussion among the participants shows cautious optimism regarding political realignment post-Brexit and the potential outcomes in upcoming elections.
The Labour Party first took office on 22nd January 1924. In the century that followed it has only had six prime ministers and been in power for a total of 33 years. The Labour MP Jon Cruddas looks back at A Century of Labour – the successes and failures. While the Party has been riven by factions from the left and the right, Cruddas also looks at the competing visions of the what the Party represents.
The Labour Party was born out of the increase in franchise, the industrialisation of the workforce and unions, and in its early days class was a key factor in voting patterns. The political scientist Jane Green is a specialist in public opinion and electoral behaviour. She argues that the Brexit vote created a new divide between Leavers and Remainers, and considers the significant impact of age and education on voting habits.
With an election due this year all political parties will be preparing their manifestos and presenting their vision of the future. The Professor of Politics at the London School of Economics, Jonathan White, focuses on the future as a political idea in The Long Run. While the democratic electoral cycle foregrounds short term policies, White argues it’s time for politicians to consider long-term solutions.
Producer: Katy Hickman