The Tory party is no longer conservative

The Tory party is no longer conservative

24 Oct 2006

Has the Conservative Party lost its values? Proponents of the motion argue that the party has moved away from the conservative tradition and switched to a more liberal, “soft”, position, betraying its electors in the process; its detractors say that the Party is well tied to its traditions and strengths. The panel, chaired by Polly Toynbee, share their views.

Arguing in favour of the motion are Peter Hitchens and Jeremy O’Grady. Peter Hitchens begins by explaining how, from his point of view, the Tory Party has lost sight of its core values. Furthermore, he continues, the change within the party will determine the results of the next elections. Jeremy O’Grady explores what he perceives as changes in the party's interpretation of conservatism. In particular, he argues that floating voters such as himself do not care if the Tory Party should be seen as conservative or not, and provokes his opponents by asking “Can a jellyfish be conservative?”.

Arguing against the motion are Charles Moore and Michael Gove MP. Charles Moore starts by making a clear distinction between what is to believe in a religion and a political party – “A political party is not a faith”. He adds an interesting comparison with modern leadership candidate David Cameron and the 1980s leader Margaret Thatcher, apoint returned to throughout the debate. Michael Gove provides a critique of Hitchens’ position earlier in the debate, defining him as “a reactionary, not a conservative”. Using a useful comparison with the English Civil War, he explains the different points-of-view held inside the Party. Finally, reversing the title of the debate, Gove suggests that, under David Cameron's leadership, the Conservative Party is back in the main stream of conservative tradition.

First vote: 248 For, 196 Against, 247 Don't know.

Final vote: 285 For, 338 Against, 94 Don't know.

The motion is defeated by 53 votes.

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