At the Tory Reform Group reception with Chancellor, Jeremy Hunt, Curia’s Industrial Strategy Research Group subscribers joined MPs, Parliamentary Candidates and Councillors from around the UK to hear from three leading speakers, each offering insight into the current economy, the political landscape and future trajectory of our nation.
Hunt primarily proposed his bold vision for the economy and highlighted the value of investing in life sciences and the NHS especially during its time of crisis.
As an election is fast approaching, speakers from the Conservative Party, including Chancellor Jeremy Hunt MP, Nickie Aiken MP, and Conservative Parliamentary Candidate for Henley, and Thame, Caroline Newton, spoke extensively about the creating growth and prosperity of the UK. Of course, they advocated for a Conservative Government to continue to build upon their record, but they also set out ways in which they could achieve this. Their conversation also fleshed out the party’s strategy on the economy ahead of the election and priorities going forward.
Key themes discussed included the significance of effective policy making, especially through an economic lens, as well as unity and moderation within the Conservative Party.
Hunt’s Proposal on Effective Policy Making Within the Conservative Party
Hunt claimed that there needs to be a continuation of prudent economic policy. He drew on the fact that the UK economy had outpaced similar economies in Europe and is forecast to outpace some, despite notable extraneous shocks. He advocated for an economic model that is not dependent on migration, but instead, he said the Government needs to focus on making ‘work pay.’
Alongside policies on crime and education, investment in public services was also spotlighted. Hunt cited many ways in which we can improve the effectiveness of the NHS and investments we can make to ensure the nation reaches its potential. Welfare reform was also touched upon, as he criticised the Labour Party’s failure to touch on this important matter.
“The one thing we should be most proud of is Education.”
Chancellor of the Exchequer, Jeremy Hunt
Unity and Moderation Within the Conservative Party:
The Chancellor reinforced the notion that unity within the Conservative Party is vital for prosperity. By recognising the party’s successes since 2010, despite encountering substantial challenges, it is imperative to unite around the values and principles of conservatism. Unity will enable the party to confront roadblocks and tackle matters head-on.
“We won’t win if we are not united, and if we lose, it will be our own fault.”
Chancellor of the Exchequer, Jeremy Hunt
Hunt also claimed that the kind of party the Tories need to ‘stay in’ is one where they prioritise the value of economic growth, but also recognise the importance of investing in public services. He claimed, “We need to have an offer to the British people that addresses both people’s desire to become more prosperous and have decent public services.”
Although standing down at the next election, Conservative MP for Cities of London and Westminster, Nickie Aiken MP furthered this rhetoric; she raised the concern over the dominance of the right-wing faction within the Conservative Party, highlighting that a clear vocalisation of ‘true conservatism,’ with centrist-right rather than extremist ideologies, is imperative for the party’s success. To do this, there needs to be a constructive dialogue in the Conservative Party, to ensure coherence and cooperation.
As a newly selected Parliamentary Candidate for the Conservatives in a seat which they should win given the challenging national polling, Caroline Newton further highlighted the fragility of democracy. She stressed the importance of moderation, compassion, and freedom, emphasising the salience of fighting for these values in today’s climate.
Final Thought
In reflection of this event, a clear message emerges: unity, moderation, and effective policymaking are crucial for the Conservative Party’s success. The comments made by each of the speakers emphasised the importance of staying true to centrist-right values and investing in both economic growth and public services.
Hunt’s focus on pragmatic economic policies and improving public services resonates with the need for a balanced approach to governance. As the political landscape shifts, their insights aim to provide direction for navigating the challenges ahead and fostering a prosperous future for the UK.
Whilst this article provides a summary of some of the topics discussed, subscribers to Curia’s Industrial Strategy Research Group gain the full insight into the themes and topics discussed. To find out more about becoming a subscriber, please contact team@curiauk.com.
The full report from the event is available to our subscribers.