The Conservative Party in Britain is facing significant turmoil, with various scandals, defeats in local elections, and internal disarray. The current Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak, is facing mounting pressure, with many predicting defeat in the upcoming general election. The party has already had five leaders in the past eight years, showcasing instability and lack of leadership. This stands in stark contrast to the party’s long history of success and resilience over the past 350 years.
One of the key factors contributing to the current state of the Conservative Party is Brexit and the leadership of Boris Johnson. The decision to hold a referendum on EU membership backfired, leading to a divisive and prolonged process that has left the country divided. Johnson’s leadership, marked by misconduct and lack of genuine conviction, has not delivered the promised benefits of Brexit. The British economy is forecasted to be the worst performing among G7 countries, leading to widespread regrets among Britons for leaving the EU.
The decline of the Conservative Party is also evident in its shrinking membership base. Once a major popular movement with millions of members, the party now only has around 140,000 members who are older, more right-wing, and predominantly southern. With fewer young people supporting the party, there is a concern about the future of traditional conservatism in the face of rising far-right nativist parties in Europe. Some within the party advocate for a further shift to the right, which could further erode the party’s historic character and values.
The current state of the Conservative Party has raised questions about its future relevance and viability. With scandals, defeats, and leadership struggles, the party is facing a crisis of identity and leadership. The party’s historical legacy and success are in jeopardy, as it grapples with internal divisions and external challenges. The traditional virtues of conservatism, such as skepticism, pragmatism, and common sense, appear to have been lost in the current political landscape, leaving the party at a crossroads.
Geoffrey Wheatcroft, a British journalist, highlights the challenges facing the Conservative Party in his forthcoming book, “Bloody Panico! Or, Whatever Happened to the Tory Party?”. As the party navigates its current predicament, there is a need to reflect on its history, values, and future direction. The Conservative Party’s fate will have implications not only for British politics but also for the broader context of European conservatism and traditional values. The party’s ability to adapt to changing circumstances and uphold its core principles will determine its survival in the turbulent political landscape.
