Professor Simon Usherwood, Professor in Politics & International Studies

15 November 2022

The first Open Politics webinar commenced with a timely, and thoughtful, discussion of current developments in British politics, reflecting on the UK over the last ten years. Professor Simon Usherwood of The Open University presented an analysis of recent political instability, considering how far this has had a long-term impact on the structures and institutions of the British state. Though the key personnel have changed more rapidly in the last decade than before, the structure remains, in many ways, resilient.

Simon pointed to the cyclical nature of political crisis in Britain and reflected on how periods that see the same party in power for ten years or more run out of ‘Big Political Ideas’ and there is a breakdown in direction. In this cycle the factor of Brexit has complicated matters and represented a sort of existential crisis of who we are. There has also been a decline in perceived standards of public life that have contributed to a decline in respect for politicians. Yet, despite these problems the system has prevailed over all such challenges.

Institutions and structures have been robust. Parliament played a key role in Brexit limiting the power of the executive. The judicial arm of the state has also been active in upholding rights and demanding government observe the constitution. International markets have also played a role in shaping policy and limiting the actions of those who hold power. Finally, civil society has acted to demand action, as illustrated by Marcus Rashford’s intervention over free school meals. All of which, Simon argues, point to a more stable society despite the problems of government and the fragile state of the executive.

The discussion also explored ideas for reform, given the present range of political challenges facing the UK. Questions of reforms to the voting system and the House of Lords were raised, particularly because there are commitments from the Labour Party on this, though little sign of any timetable for this at present. Issues of transparency and accountability of government were raised, as was Brexit. Simon reflected on the possibilities for transparency and accountability to go some way to deal with the issue of public confidence in politicians. Brexit remained a key problem for the UK, though a shift in policy around the single market might deal with the issues in Northern Ireland and stabilise the situation in the UK.