Cameron: The Politics of Modernisation and Manipulation

David Cameron's legacy is one of the most significant of any post-war British prime minister, and this book provides a new and distinctive interpretation of 'Cameronism' focusing on modernisation and manipulation. Heppell identifies three core aspects of Camerons modernisation strategy: his attempts to detoxify the image of the Conservative Party, his efforts to delegitimise the Labour Party, and his use of the 'Big Society narrative.

Format: Hardback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 04 November 2019
Publisher: Manchester University Press

David Cameron, the former leader of the Conservative Party (2005-16) and Prime Minister of the United Kingdom (2010-16), has left a significant legacy that is often regarded as one of the most remarkable among post-war British prime ministers. However, the question remains whether Cameron had a distinctive political strategy that set him apart from his predecessors. In this book, author Andrew Heppell offers a fresh and distinctive interpretation of 'Cameronism,' focusing on the twin themes of modernisation and manipulation.

The author identifies three core aspects of Cameron's modernisation strategy. Firstly, he aimed to detoxify the image of the Conservative Party, which had been tarnished by years of scandal and corruption. Cameron sought to present the party as a modern, progressive force that was committed to social reform and economic growth. Secondly, Cameron sought to delegitimise the Labour Party by blaming it for the financial crisis and austerity measures that were implemented during the Coalition Government. He portrayed the Labour Party as a reckless and incompetent administration that had failed to manage the economy effectively. Thirdly, Cameron used the 'Big Society narrative' as a means of reducing the perceived responsibilities of the state. He promoted the idea of community-led initiatives and voluntary organisations, arguing that they could provide better services and support than the government.

Manipulation is explored in relation to the Coalition Government and the exploitation of the Liberal Democrats. Cameron strategically aligned the Conservative Party with the Liberal Democrats on policies such as austerity, tuition fees, and electoral reform. He used the Liberal Democrats as a bargaining chip to secure his desired policies, while simultaneously undermining their political credibility. The book also examines Cameronism in relation to current challenges to the existing political order, such as Brexit, Scottish independence, and the rise of populism. Cameron's approach to these issues, particularly his emphasis on national sovereignty and the need to renegotiate Britain's relationship with the European Union, has had a lasting impact on British politics.

In conclusion, this book provides a valuable and insightful analysis of 'Cameronism' and its impact on British politics. It offers a fresh perspective on Cameron's modernisation strategy, manipulation tactics, and his response to contemporary challenges. It is essential reading for those interested in British party politics and Prime Ministerial leadership.

Weight: 418g
Dimension: 227 x 162 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780719096457