The Conservatives are wrapped in the quiet cocoon of Manchester Central today and the conference has a subdued vibe — many activists might be staying away until the anti-austerity protests are over. But the halls are packed out with the exhibitors, shops and merchandise you’d expect for a party that has won its first majority in 23 years and is in celebratory mode. Here are some of the most Tory things in Manchester (click on the pictures to enlarge).
One of the more interesting additions to the exhibition hall this year is the Conservative Party Archive. The Tories now have a whole stand dedicated to the party’s vast archives at the Bodleian Library in Oxford. As well as classic posters about socialism from the 20s, 70s and 90s, you can buy mugs, fridge magnets and postcards from days of yore:
Elsewhere, this year’s CCHQ gag stand is ‘Labour’s magic money-printing machine’ – featuring a lady with a Jeremy Corbyn cap and beard giving out £100s of Corbyn money from the ‘Bank of Labour’. The booth is adorned with Soviet-Style posters featuring Corbyn, Tom Watson and John McDonnell. And naturally, the Bank of Labour is open three days a week:
But it’s not all serious politics. Harvey Nichols has a mobile eatery and a mini-shop selling wine and champagne:
There’s also a market selling natty patterned bags and goods for your home:
As well as a few men’s clothing shops to pick up some new brogues, umbrellas and Oxford shirts:
At the Blackwell’s book shop, the two biggest selling item are the new biographies of the Prime Minister: Call Me Dave and Cameron at No.10. A sign excitedly proclaims that the second instalment of Charles Moore’s Thatcher biography is arriving tomorrow:
The Conservative party also has an official merchandise shop, where the ‘1 strong team, 5 more years’ slogan adorns everything. Mugs and T-shirts carry this message, as well as Iron Baby bibs and the gift everyone has been looking for — cufflinks with Margaret Thatcher quotes:
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