UK Politics

Four trends you’ll see in online election campaigns this year

— In the 2024 election campaign, TikTok gains prominence alongside traditional platforms. Parties use diverse digital advertising channels like Google and YouTube, focusing on specific demographics.

UK Politics

Labour’s £28 billion green investment promise could be watered down

— Labour leader Keir Starmer faces pressure over Labour’s proposed £28 billion yearly investment in green initiatives. Critics fear fiscal liability, while supporters argue for urgent climate action despite potential political backlash.

UK Politics

YouGov survey signals trouble for Rishi Sunak and Conservatives

— A recent survey conducted by YouGov asked Brits to assess the current state of the UK in comparison to 2010. If Rishi Sunak and the Tories believe they have a chance to win a general election this year, the findings of this survey suggest they may be in for an unpleasant surprise.

COMMENT

Mendacious narcissistic sociopaths

— While Rishi Sunak hints at delaying the next general election, countering earlier expectations, criticism grows over the PM’s narrative, including handling PPE contracts, his views on the Rwanda scheme, and underscoring accountability concerns.

UK Politics

Should we believe Rishi Sunak’s hint that the election will be in October?

— Rishi Sunak has hinted at a general election in the second half of the year, giving the Conservatives time to narrow Labour’s lead. Sunak hopes for signs of economic recovery, with anticipated tax cuts in the spring potentially boosting the polls.

UK Politics

More than just an election: The other key political events in 2024

— From new immigration laws to the COVID inquiry’s module on vaccines, 2024 is more than just a year to head to the polls.

UK Politics

Six books (and one play) to read to understand British politics today

— With a general election on the horizon, it’s the perfect time to curl up with one of these expert political book recommendations.

UK Politics

Why did Keir Starmer pen the ‘Margaret Thatcher’ article for the Telegraph?

— Keir Starmer has faced criticism for publishing an article in the right-wing Telegraph and praising Margaret Thatcher. However, a study suggests that when the public perceives a party becoming more right-wing, the party gains more votes, particularly during recessions.

UK Economy

Why the UK economy is in such a state – and even the Labour party doesn’t seem to get how bad things are

— Keir Starmer acknowledges spending constraints in a potential future Labour government, citing economic challenges after 13 years of Conservative rule, while his Shadow Chancellor promotes “securonomics” for economic security, though funding details are unclear.

UK Politics

Autumn statement: What to expect, what they’re not saying, and the traps for Labour

— The budget aims to address the Tories’ economic strategy and the cost of living crisis ahead of the general election. Given the challenging economic outlook, the budget may include tax cuts and measures to boost growth, but challenges like inconsistent policies and pressure to cut benefits persist.

UK Politics

Rishi Sunak’s decision to bring back David Cameron has distracted us all for now, but the long-term strategy is flawed

— Rishi Sunak’s appointment of David Cameron as foreign secretary raises questions. Cameron, not a popular figure, is linked to Brexit and an era of austerity, conflicting with Sunak’s strategy. The move may have short-term benefits but poses risks for the Conservative Party.

UK Politics

My mathematical model cautions Rishi Sunak against shifting to the right ahead of the next election

— Rishi Sunak wants everyone to be better at maths. Here’s what taking his own advice would mean for his election campaign. Shifting to the right ahead of the next General Election could pose significant challenges for him.

UK General Election

New Labour dominance in the 1990s is now weakening the Conservative voter pipeline

— A study on voting trends in Britain spanning 55 years reveals that growing older doesn’t directly lead to increased Conservative support. Instead, age appears to have a greater influence on Labour voting.

Brexit

Why Labour’s plan to ‘rewrite Brexit’ might not be as politically risky as it sounds

— Once upon a time, questioning the terms of Britain’s exit from the EU was effectively taboo. But times have changed, and the public might be more on board now than before.

Immigration

Labour’s immigration policy: Will focus on ‘security’ win an election?

— Labour’s immigration policy emphasises border security and targeting smuggling gangs, aiming to win back “red wall” voters concerned about immigration. Labour’s strategy can talk tough on security while not demonising migrants themselves, offering a nuanced position.

UK Politics

Rishi Sunak packages U-turns as challenges to consensus politics – an improbable effort to rebrand as the candidate for change

— A prime minister who has been an MP for nearly a decade now wants to challenge 30 years of ‘vested interests’.