So it is no surprise, either, that the rejection of the Conservatives and all they have come to stand for is so emphatic. What is novel, not to say worrying, is the likely cadre of Reform UK populists showing up in the Commons – as many as the Liberal Democrats managed to elect at the 2019 election.
Nigel Farage, it seems, may have been right when he said that “something is happening out there”. The other democratic parties will need to take this lot a bit more seriously in future. Farage often says he wants to be a nuisance – he now has some accomplices to help.
Obviously, these oddball populists will be ill-disciplined and fractious, if their record in the European parliament is anything to go by; but they represent a bridgehead. They will be a constant siren to the Tory right, and an impediment to rebuilding that party.
In truth it’s maybe a bit better for the Tories than they might have feared – but still the worst since, well, the dawn of democratic politics and the passage of the Reform Act of 1832.
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Netanyahu's actions suggest he isn't interested in peace
One year on from the invasion led by Hamas terrorists that has been called the greatest trauma in Israel's history, in which 1,200 Israelis were killed and more than 200 taken hostage, Benjamin Netanyahu's government claims sudden success.
Nketiah has big aspirations back home in south London
Eberechi Eze ambles over to take the free-kick and as he does so, Eddie Nketiah scans his surroundings.
New case could transform transfer market like Bosman
Lassana Diarra is arguing Fifa rules breach EU labour laws
Carsley envisages 'creative' plan to combine star trio
England boss wants to play Palmer, Foden and Bellingham
Maguire salvages point for United in Portugese thriller
Super sub Harry Maguire’s stoppage-time header saved Manchester United’s blushes and potentially Erik ten Hag’s job as the Europa League clash with Porto ended in a thrilling 3-3 draw.
There is a big if when it comes to interest rate cuts...
Andrew Bailey, governor of the Bank of England, said in an interview that the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) could be \"a bit more activist\" in bringing rates down.
Delhi police seize record cocaine haul worth £640m
Delhi police have seized over 560kg of cocaine worth more than 65 billion rupees 643m) on the international market.
CIA reaches out to recruit agents in despotic regimes
The US Central Intelligence Agency has launched a new drive to hire potential spies in China, Iran and North Korea after a similar successful campaign to recruit Russians.
Nato chief visits Kyiv amid major Russian drone attack
Russian forces have launched a major drone attack on 15 Ukrainian regions, causing damage to energy infrastructure, residential buildings and schools.
Can war in the Middle East be won by military might?
Mike Crofts examines the balance of power across the region