Time for a renewal of Conservatism
In the first of our new series, we will be inviting each of the borough’s four MPs to update you on their work, serving you
ONE thing made clear by the General Election, it is that our frustrated country is crying out for positive leadership and renewal to overcome the real-world challenges that face us.
My fellow MPs and I, back in Westminster for the last three weeks, have much to reflect upon.
We Conservatives returned slightly diminished in numbers but not in spirit.
The Parliamentary party is determined to support Theresa May as Prime Minister and, as the largest Party, we have acted in the national interest by forming a government.
Much has been said about the campaign, but we secured nearly 43% of the national vote. We are the second-largest Party in Scotland.
There are Conservative MPs now in Stoke, Mansfield and Middlesbrough.
For the first time in a long time, Conservatives represent all areas, regions and countries of Great Britain.
Putting to one side, for the moment, the immediate challenges facing us as a country, my hope is that this results in a renewal of Conservatism.
The startling demographic breakdown that showed most people under 40 voted Labour, ought to leave no doubt that, in time, a New Conservatism will be required if we are to begin to tackle the long-term challenges we face as a nation.
It is imperative that we address the issues that matter to all ages of all sections of society, as it is clear that no other party is prepared to do so.
An ageing society; intergenerational fairness; the UK’s role in a changing world; disruptive technology; mental health; extremism and integration – some of us have been talking about how we address these issues for a long time.
Our manifesto sought to broaden this conversation.
It was not perfect, far from it, but it was forward-looking, innovative and courageous in its scope.
A renewed Conservatism must build on this to create a movement across all sections of our society for positive renewal and change in our country.