Stephen Barber

UK Politics

Tory leadership contenders would be wise to become the ‘heir to Keir’

— They are already tacking to the right but the six Tory leadership contenders would be better off copying Keir Starmer’s playbook.

2024 General Election

Tory downfall is democracy rectifying its mistakes

— Democracies, despite their mistakes, excel at correcting them. The 2024 British general election’s defeat of the Conservatives highlights democracy’s power to renew. New Prime Minister Keir Starmer must now restore government integrity and address national damage.

2024 General Election

Polls predict total wipeout for the Tories – and Britain’s constitution makes it a real possibility

— Recent polls suggest the Tories could face a historic loss in the next general election, with projections showing a potential loss of 250 MPs, leaving them under 100 seats, and both the Prime Minister and Chancellor losing their constituencies.

Post Office Horizon IT Scandal

Post Office scandal: What the lack of action tells you about Britain’s polarised politics

— The Post Office scandal, where over 700 sub-postmasters were wrongly convicted, reveals a systemic failure. Political inaction stemmed from the victims lacking a political constituency and now fuels opportunistic party warfare.

UK Politics

The UK’s culture war is dying – But the next prime minister will have to stand up to plenty of populists overseas

— Keir Starmer, if he becomes prime minister, faces global populism amid elections favouring anti-establishment figures around the world. Navigating instability, he must defend NATO and counter divisive forces in a changing political climate.