The key problem is stagnation. Margaret Thatcher’s reforms promoted mobility and opportunity. Now we are an economy which doesn’t change enough.
Monday’s speech and today’s announcement show them choosing their ground for the next election. And since Hunt may find no money for further tax cuts next spring, the option of a May general election is opening up.
Governments who want to set out a clear vision for their electorates need to have an accessible story that explains their direction, aims and values. Here are some core conservative beliefs with which to start.
In the absence of a convincing change narrative, the Prime Minister fell back yesterday on trying to frighten voters with a Labour government.
Hunt should raise his sights from South West Surrey, and focus on tax cuts that would bring the greatest relief to the greatest number.
There is also a moral point: if someone works, they should be the main beneficiary of their labour, rather than being forced to give most of their extra earnings to the Government.
Having chastised Bailey for being too sluggish in raising rates, I’m hesitant to let him fall back on bad habits too soon – especially if a looming war in the Middle East sends inflation spiraling once again.
We need higher public sector productivity, lower costs of government, and a lower deficit. This can advanced with tax cuts which lower prices, create more supply, and boost incomes and profits to tax at home.
If you want people to feel motivated to go out and vote Conservative, delivering some Conservative policies would be a good start.
We don’t want our children to grow up in a stultified, caste society where the only way to wealth and opportunity is to inherit it from parents.
Some projects that had previously been announced were included, as were some projects that had even been completed. Some of the announcements related to local projects for which the decision to proceed rested with regional mayors not central government.
Hunt may not be looking for tax rises. But tax rises might be looking for him, as borrowing costs may continue to soar.
Voters clearly want it – and the recent past suggests he’s a more credible agent of it than Sir Keir.
The second part of our series on reducing demand for government, in which we set out a programme for change – focused on families, civil society and government.
Those who claim the Conservatives would benefit from a spell in opposition to ‘rest and detox’ are misguided. My first nine years in Parliament were spent in opposition, and it was a frustrating experience.