The UK leaves recession – but is it too late for the Tories?
Spectator (UK)MAY 4 2024
The Spin
Tory narrative
Following a tough couple of years, the UK economy is now beginning to reap the rewards of strong and stable governance. The fastest growth in two years and tumbling inflation is by no means an accident — the British public can remain optimistic about the future of their country under the lead of the Conservative Party.
Labour narrative
The Tories have destroyed the economy. Amidst doubling national debt and skyrocketing mortgages, Sunak has called an election earlier than expected because he knows his policies have failed. With no more room for tax cuts in the second half of the year, the prime minister has finally resigned his fate to the British public.
Reform narrative
Polling shows that the British people neither trust Labour nor the Conservatives with being responsible for lowering taxes and managing the UK economy. The public is resigned and pessimistic over the direction of the country — irrespective of whether Reeves or Hunt holds the keys to the Treasury.
Progressive narrative
UK capitalism has never recovered from 2008, leaving the average individual nearly £15K ($19K) worse off than they should be. Following historic decline, the Tories cannot be trusted with another five years in power, and it's clear that the change the country needs will not be found in Starmer. Now is more important than ever for people to come together and fight the pro-austerity, anti-worker norms that continue to hold the UK hostage.