If the Tory party wants to get back into power, it would do well to listen to Sir John Major

The trajectory of former Prime Minister Sir John Major's reputation has shifted from immediate criticism to a resurgence of respect and wisdom. Having left office after a significant electoral defeat, he now offers insights into the Conservative Party's challenges, particularly regarding its relationship with Europe and the need to appeal to a broader voter base. Major emphasizes that the failures of recent leaders, notably Boris Johnson and Liz Truss, contributed to the party's losses, rather than external figures like Nigel Farage. He critiques the party's recent shift towards hard-right populism, which he believes has alienated potential supporters and led to misguided policies. Major argues that the Conservatives must focus on long-term issues and attract genuinely center-right individuals back into the fold. He expresses concern that the current leadership candidates do not embody this vision. The historical context reveals that the Conservatives faced a lengthy period out of power following their internal divisions, which culminated in the 1997 election disaster. It was only after David Cameron urged the party to move away from a fixation on Europe that they regained power, albeit with the support of the Liberal Democrats. Major's reflections serve as a cautionary tale for the party, suggesting that a return to its core values and a more inclusive approach could be essential for future electoral success. His insights highlight the importance of unity and a clear direction for the Conservatives to regain public trust and credibility.