It’s time for a clear, truly Conservative strategy

What is this Government for? After Monday’s rebellion, during the current reset, and before the awaited reshuffle, it can seem that every move, every announcement is shaped by short-term tactics, not moulded by long-term strategy, let alone anything so grand as a fully-formed “vision”.

This of course can be an advantage. In opposition, or on the campaign trail – which long characterised Boris Johnson’s political position even when his own party was in power – assembling a broad coalition of support is vital. And the Prime Minister was the unquestioned master of that. But having earned so much political capital, the time has now come when it must be spent, which will mean him disappointing some in that broad coalition he alone put together.

No wonder he is dithering. Yet attempting to please everyone risks pleasing no one. If policies do not hang together, no matter how worthy or ingenious they are individually, the overwhelming impression is of incoherence, which leads to instability. It is simply not possible to reconcile high and low-tax philosophies; big and small-state thinking; interventionist and laissez-faire regulatory approach. So what is the guiding spirit of this administration? Of this prime minister?

The time has come for clarity and purpose – to put an end to the muddle and choose. The first and most important step is to stop being so passive in the face of political difficulties, from the cost-of-living crisis to economic sluggishness. Yes there are global headwinds. But there are also opportunities – specific measures this Government can take.

If fuel prices are so high and energy bills so expensive, it should come as no surprise to a Government which itself contributes by placing great levies upon them. It is not good enough for an administration which promised to take back control always to plead that it is buffeted by forces beyond that control.

Levelling up is a laudable ambition. But Conservatives must never forget that redistributing wealth is easier to do if there is more wealth to go around. Beyond defence of the realm, their primary duty must be to create and grow that wealth. And lowering tax and encouraging business through deregulation is the key to doing so.

Amid the blizzard of proposals and the political positioning of the past few days, this is the simple strategy that needs to shine through and be sustained until election day: smaller state, lower taxes, less regulation.

If the Prime Minister truly believes in these things he must convince us now.