By Graham Vanbergen: At last! The dreadful spectacle of the general election is now over. Speculation that this was somehow a ‘shallow’ victory for the Labour Party is misplaced. It demonstrates a lack of understanding of the system of what has now become the norm – tactical democracy. It is a tactical manoeuvre if you voted for the most likely party to defeat your local MP. Given the numbers, for those that voted tactically, the chances are you would have voted for Labour if you could have. Many of my friends voted LibDem just to get the local Tory MP out of office (even if said Tory MP was good at his job locally).
Do not be deceived by the wider media and their commentary on percentages, vote share and tactical voting. The LibDems and Reform won many of those seats because of it – not because of them.
The last decade has been marked politically as little more than a stain on Britain’s stoic normality of moderate political acceptance. The Conservative Party brought us both economic, political and diplomatic failure along with societal division. They will now not provide any real opposition to government as they fight themselves, probably to the death. This unedifying exhibition of incompetence brought to us by the likes of Cameron, May, Johnson, Truss and Sunak is matched by the failed Brexit ideology of people like Rees-Mogg, Steve Baker, Michael Fabricant and Andrew Bridgen (to name but a fraction of the extremists that inhabit the hard-right element of the party) – most of whom were defeated by tactical voting.
It is time to make Britain serious again. It is time to rebuild – not just who we are but a crumbling infrastructure – and global reputation.
It is true to say that the international landscape for Western democracies is increasingly marked by political instability, economic upheaval, and social unrest. In such a climate, the UK’s emergence with a new government composed of serious and dedicated politicians could be a turning point, which may see it navigate through global turbulence and enhance its standing on the world stage.
A Steady Hand in Uncertain Times
With many countries grappling with internal conflicts, economic challenges, and populist uprisings, the UK’s stability becomes even more critical. A Labour government with serious politicians – those committed to long-term planning, pragmatic solutions, and bipartisan cooperation can provide the steady hand needed to steer the nation through these tumultuous times. By prioritizing competence over charisma and policy over populism, the UK can offer a model of governance that contrasts sharply with the volatility now being seen elsewhere. It is an opportunity that should be fully grasped after its dalliance with a political party that failed in everything it touched and lit the touchpaper of self-immolation.
Economic stability is, of course, the bedrock of national resilience. The new government must focus on bolstering the economy through strategic investments in technology, green energy, and infrastructure. By fostering a business-friendly environment while ensuring robust social safety nets, the UK can attract global investment and retain talent. Furthermore, addressing regional inequalities within the UK will be crucial in maintaining social cohesion and ensuring that all citizens benefit from economic growth.
Domestically, fostering social cohesion will be key to withstanding global instability. The new Labour government must address divisive issues with empathy and inclusivity, ensuring that all communities feel heard and valued. By investing in education, healthcare, and housing, and by addressing systemic inequalities, the UK can build a more united and resilient society. Programs that promote civic engagement and community building will also be crucial in fostering a sense of national unity.
Innovation will be a cornerstone of the UK’s strategy to thrive amid global uncertainties. The Labour government should champion research and development, support startups and SMEs, and embrace digital transformation across all sectors. Adaptability will be critical in this new world of disorder; the ability to quickly pivot in response to new challenges and opportunities will ensure that the UK remains competitive and forward-looking.
Enhancing Global Diplomacy
In a world where international alliances are being tested more than ever in the post-war era, the UK’s role as a diplomatic bridge-builder will be vital. A government prioritising seasoned diplomacy and international cooperation can help the UK navigate complex geopolitical landscapes. The Labour Party needs to Strengthen ties with traditional allies while also building new partnerships. The UK’s commitment to multilateral organizations and agreements can also enhance its influence on global issues like climate change, security, and trade.
The UK now stands at a new crossroads, where the quality of its governance will determine its trajectory in a world fraught with instability. Take heed. If the Labour Party fails in the next five to ten years, you know what will come next. Just look over the pond and see America, where 40 per cent believe civil war will strike within ten years. Democracy stands on a precipice because its economic systems failed to deliver its promise. It’s time for the pendulum to swing back a bit.