Boris Johnson’s left-wing policies impact Tory future in UK

Kemi Badenoch's remarks during her Conservative leadership campaign highlighted a disconnect within the Tory party, where the party's rhetoric did not align with its governance. Graham Brady, chair of the 1922 Committee, revealed in his memoirs that Boris Johnson's government was the most left-leaning in peacetime, characterized by increased spending and taxation, as well as an authoritarian response to the Covid pandemic. This leftward shift surprised many, particularly as Johnson's supporters were often from the right of the party. The confusion surrounding Johnson's policies stemmed from the dual pressures of Brexit and the pandemic. His manifesto focused on public services and he argued that ending free movement would benefit lower-paid workers. However, the pandemic led to a significant rise in public spending, complicating the party's ideological stance. Brady noted the internal conflict within Johnson, who oscillated between criticizing scientific advice and grappling with the moral implications of lockdowns. A critical aspect of Johnson's left-leaning governance was his approach to immigration. Despite the public's expectation for reduced immigration following the Brexit vote, Johnson's points-based system resulted in increased immigration levels. This contradiction became apparent only after revised figures were released in 2022, prompting a panicked response from the then-home secretary, James Cleverly. The Tory party's inability to reconcile its promises with its actions has left it vulnerable, particularly against figures like Nigel Farage. The party's failure to address these issues has created a significant challenge in regaining the trust of its voter base, complicating its future prospects in UK politics.