Are The Tory’s Succeeding? Six Months On From The Election

Now nearly six months on from the election, we ask whether or not the Tories are succeeding and repaying the faith shown in them by the electorate?

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It is nearly six months since the result of the UK election was announced, with the Conservatives sweeping to a landslide victory ahead of Labour and the previously championed UKIP. It was thought to be a victory for economic growth and stability, even though the result caused uproar among working-class voters who feared for their future.

While this reflects the historical and somewhat outdated view of the Tory’s being an elitist political party, however, the decision to cut tax credits has united many low-income families in rebellion against the conservatives. With disposable income also falling, there are urgent challenges that need to be overcome if the Tory’s are to enjoy a successful term in office.

Are the Tory’s succeeding? 3 Key areas to Consider

With this in mind, it is worth considering whether or not the Tory’s have enjoyed a successful six months since the general election. Here are three factors to measure this against: -

Disposable income and the distribution of wealth

According to Brides.com, the average man still saves an estimated three months of their annual salary to purchase an engagement ring for their partners. This type of one-off, big ticket purchase is not indicative of everyday spending patterns, however, and the fact remains that those with lower-incomes are saving less while struggling to cope with recurring expenses such as groceries, utilities and other bills.

In fact, British household spending power and disposable income levels fell during the first three years of the coalition government, despite job growth and the fact that millions were removed from the lowest income tax band. This trend has continued during the first six months of Tory rule, and the decision to slash tax credits has exacerbated the issue facing low income households. While the private sector must also assume responsibility for this, the Conservatives must work closer with this market to drive positive change.

Verdict: There is still much work to be done.

The Economy and creation of a Northern Powerhouse

While the numbers being generated by the UK economy seem largely positive, further inspection reveals a significant imbalance and long-term concerns. Take the property market, which is seeing growth based on an imbalance between supply and demand, which while driving artificially high prices is also forcing many potential buyers out of the market.

The same can be said for economic growth, as London and regions in the south west continues to generate reinvestment and drive job creation. This is why George Osborne is so keen to see his devolution project to completion, as he looks to create a northern economic powerhouse with individual regions that are governed by appointed mayors. This would mirror the American political infrastructure and create a more balanced economy, which in turn would be a major legacy for the Tories to leave.

Verdict: The Tories are on the right track

Immigration and the Crisis in Syria

As hundreds and thousands of stricken Syrian refugees continue to make the treacherous journey across Europe, the Tory’s have been criticized for pledging to accept just 20,000 across UK borders over the course of the next five years. This is less than similarly resourced economic powers such as Germany and France, while even the Vatican has called from Britain to take in more. In contrast, right-wing voters are critical of the Tories for accepting any at all, especially as the country struggles with an existing immigration crisis.

While the government cannot appease everyone, however, it has a duty as a democratic state to help those who seek asylum. Although David Cameron has rightly pointed out that the Tories are investing heavily in improving the conditions of camps and living quarters in Syria, the decision to accept just 20,000 over five years seems questionable in the extreme. This may be part of a continued drive to retain the loyalty of voters towards the right wing of UK politics, but the Tories must be careful not to assume a stance that is too close to that of UKIP.

Verdict: The Conservatives must rethink their immigration policy.