New Labour has failed

New Labour has failed

27 Nov 2003

The panel debate the motion 'New Labour has failed'.

Arguing in favour of the motion are Michael Heseltine, Jerry Hayes, and Simon Jenkins.

Michael Heseltine argues that New Labour has reneged on its manifesto pledges to the point where the UK is moving towards an unsustainable economic position. New Labour has failed in its policies in terms of healthcare, education, crime and foreign policy.

Jerry Hayes points out the policy areas in which New Labour has failed to meet expectations, including social justice, education and fiscal policy.

Simon Jenkins argues that New Labour has failed because they have mixed old-fashioned Labour corporatism and old Tory authoritarianism.

Arguing against the motion are Matthew Evans, Peter Hitchens, and David Aaronovitch.

Matthew Evans explores the areas in which New Labour is successful, including Britain’s economic performance and its commitment to its core values. Evans argues that New Labour can only be judged by the targets it set itself, and by these measures the party is doing well.

Peter Hitchens takes the unusual method of pointing out all of New Labour's failings: the destruction of the impartiality of the civil service, attacks on civil liberties, increased tax, and so on. However, he believes that New Labour has been successful in other areas because of these distractions.

David Aaronovitch argues that it is important not to make comparisons between New Labour and a subjective version of ideal government. In terms of key performance indicators, New Labour is doing very well.

First vote: 246 For, 115 Against, 120 Don't know

Final vote: 298 For, 153 Against, 25 Don't know

The motion is carried by 145 votes.