Fraser Nelson Fraser Nelson

In response to CoffeeHousers

CoffeeHousers have left some characteristically forthright and thoughtful comments on the blog about my Keith Joseph lecture, and I thought I’d answer them in a post.  

Tiberius says that I don’t mention voters very much – I talk only about ideas. The voters have been taught Labour ideas: isn’t this something the Tories have to deal with? First, I firmly believe that the public are open to persuasion, open to new ideas having seen the collapse of Labour’s ideas. But, in my lecture (full text here), I do mention voters quite a lot. As Keith Joseph put it, it is folly to seek the ‘middle ground’ between political parties, and Conservatives should seek the ‘common ground’ which they share with the punters.  

Michael M says it would be madness to advocate NHS cuts before an election. But there’s not a binary choice between calling for NHS cuts and protecting its spending. I’d encourage Osborne to ask for a doctor’s mandate: saying ‘this country is bust, and I’ll have to fix it.” The promises he has made so far have already hideously contorted his spending review along lines set by Brown.  

DavidDP suggests I’m on a quest for some ideological purity. I’m not: just a little more intellectual honesty. The public have to get a sense of ‘What’s it all about, Alfie?” The more the Tories incorporate Labour ideas, the harder it is to answer that question – and the more opinion polls fall.  

Bloody Bill says that Cameron’s style has done wonders to decontaminate the brand. I agree, and salute Cameron for the incredible achievement – one accomplished in the face of many enemies on the right. But the game changed in 2007 – and so, now, should his strategy. 

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