Our response to Tory promises? Credulity, deference and short memories | Andy Beckett

They break their word and govern erratically. Yet Britain’s misplaced faith in the Conservatives keeps them in power

Beneath the surface disorder of modern British politics, there are steadier patterns to be found. One of them is so regular, and so central to the workings of the whole system, that it’s rarely noticed, let alone challenged.

This pattern is hugely to the advantage of the Conservatives. Here’s how it works. When the Tories are in power, as they have been for 27 of the last 40 years, they often struggle to govern effectively. An election follows. The Tories run a negative campaign, drawing attention away from their own failures and ineptitude to the potential problems of a Labour government. To the surprise of some, the Tories win: either decisively or just well enough to stay in office. They announce that they will govern differently this time. Much of the media believes them. The Tories struggle in government once again.

Faith in their credentials helps win tight elections. That they always find a way to rule is a self-fulfilling prophecy

Related: With its lurch to the right, Britain is no longer special in Europe | Stefan Bielik

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