Awkward beginnings
The early days of a new government are often viewed as a “honeymoon period” – a time of goodwill and optimism. Yet for Sir Keir Starmer’s administration, the honeymoon seems conspicuously absent. Quotes have ranged from ‘a bafflingly bad start’ to ‘one of the worst starts for a new government in living memory’. But are these claims justified, or are comparisons with the past overly harsh?
Historically, a poor start may include early resignations, policy missteps, public dissatisfaction, or media hostility. Louise Haigh’s resignation recently, prompted by a historical personal offence, is the first such incident under Starmer. While early cabinet exits are rare, they are not unprecedented. Amber Rudd resigned early into May’s administration and Estelle Morris upset the apple cart early into Blair’s second term; however, from the perspective of 2024, these seem trivial and largely forgotten.
Looking back, several governments have endured challenging beginnings. John Major faced Black Wednesday early in his tenure. Even Tony Blair, often hailed for a smooth start in 1997, faced backlash over the Bernie Ecclestone donation controversy. Yet these governments, for better or worse, were judged over years, not months. That said, Liz Truss’s 2022 premiership was immediately marred by market turmoil, and led to a swift downfall, delayed a little with the assistance of the late Queen.
Starmer’s government faces numerous pressures. Labour has regained credibility post-Corbyn, yet criticisms of caution and lack of vision persist. Inflation, public finances, disputes over the winter fuel payments and backlash from farmers over proposed inheritance tax reforms, weigh heavily. While the government has seemed busy and engaged overseas, it has struggled to seize the moment at home and establish its identity.
Is this truly the worst start? Possibly. However, the Conservatives’ celebration, during the October conference, of Labour’s early stumbles as evidence of their future revival feels premature. Difficult beginnings are common, given that the UK electoral system often produces a loser, not a winner. Whether Sir Keir Starmer’s government can rewrite its narrative remains to be seen—but for now, the honeymoon appears to have been cancelled without refund.
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