Politics in the UK today often feels like a source of frustration and disillusionment rather than inspiration. My personal dislike of politics stems from several intertwined reasons, which reflect broader issues in the political landscape and media coverage. I should also mention that I have never been a member of any political party, which perhaps gives me a more independent perspective on the ongoing dysfunction and challenges within UK politics.
Reflections on the Labour party and Brexit
In my previous articles, I have argued that UK politics is a complete mess and an embarrassment to the country. The Labour party, once a bastion of socialist values, has increasingly adopted positions akin to ‘red Tories’, abandoning core principles.
Detached and powerless: why I avoid watching political news
I rarely watch politically related news, especially programmes focused on politics, for various reasons. Firstly, the relentless cycle of blame games and sensationalism dominates the headlines, making political news feel more like entertainment than serious discourse. Mainstream media outlets thrive on political conflict because it drives traffic to their websites and increases revenue through clicks and shares. This focus on conflict rather than constructive debate leaves me feeling disengaged and powerless. Moreover, the constant negativity and repetitive nature of political coverage can have a detrimental effect on mood, which many people, including myself, find off-putting.
Politicians and the art of avoiding direct answers
One of the most aggravating aspects of UK politics is how politicians rarely answer questions directly. Instead, they often deflect, change the subject, or resort to blaming their opponents in an attempt to score political points. This evasiveness is not accidental; communication experts have identified dozens of techniques politicians use to avoid giving straight answers, such as attacking the question, ignoring it, or appealing to nationalism. The reason behind this behaviour is partly that politicians fear being caught out in inconsistencies or making statements that could later be used against them. They prefer to stick to scripted lines and avoid committing to specifics that might expose incompetence or hypocrisy. Politicians seem to have forgotten that they are chosen to represent and serve their constituents, and appear to be thinking of themselves and their political career and how not to upset their party’s leadership.
The cost of political incompetence
This evasiveness and lack of accountability are not just irritating – they have real consequences for the economy, society, and public services. Political indecision, short-termism, and infighting have contributed to economic stagnation and underfunded public services. The failure to address pressing social issues effectively has left many vulnerable groups, including disabled people, facing harsh cuts and uncertainty. A recent example is the resignation of Labour MP Vicky Foxcroft, who stepped down as a government whip in protest against proposed disability benefit cuts by the Labour government. Her resignation highlights the internal conflicts and moral dilemmas politicians face when policies harm those they are meant to support.
Public opinion and political discontent
The public’s dissatisfaction with politics is reflected in recent opinion polls. Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s approval rating has plunged to a record low net rating of −54, with only 19% satisfied and 73% dissatisfied according to Ipsos UK polling from late May to early June 2025. This sharp decline signals widespread disillusionment with the current leadership and its direction.
Labour’s shifting core values
Despite the shift in the Labour party’s core principles, the party remains internationally affiliated with several key progressive organisations. It is a full member of the Party of European Socialists (PES), which unites socialist, social democratic, and labour parties across Europe to shape progressive policies and promote economic justice and equality.
Progressive Alliance
Additionally, Labour is a founding member of the Progressive Alliance, an international network of social-democratic parties committed to cooperation beyond traditional frameworks. The party also holds observer status in the Socialist International, reflecting its historical ties while maintaining a critical distance due to ethical concerns. These affiliations underscore Labour’s ongoing engagement with the broader social democratic movement, even as its domestic policies have moved away from traditional socialist ideals.
Notably, Labour’s refusal to pursue rejoining the European Economic Area (EEA) or temporarily rejoining the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) as a step toward EU membership is a missed opportunity to revive the economy and regain the benefits of EU membership.
Opposition to Brexit among Labour supporters
Despite strong public opinion polls showing opposition to Brexit and support for rejoining the EU, the government continues to defy the will of the British public. Recent polling reveals that 55% of people in Great Britain now believe leaving the EU was the wrong decision, compared to 30% who think it was right. This ‘Bregret’ is especially pronounced among younger voters, with 75% of 18 to 24-year-olds regretting Brexit. Additionally, a majority of those who voted for the current government (56%), as well as Green (59%) and Liberal Democrat (55%) voters, consider rejoining the EU the right priority. However, the public is divided on the timing of a potential referendum to rejoin, with 45% favouring a vote within five years and 52% supporting one within 25 years.
Trade with the EU
Moreover, while trade with the EU is the top priority for the public in negotiations, many feel the government’s current approach does not go far enough to restore beneficial ties. Concerns over the cost of living and the quality of public services remain high, and dissatisfaction with the government’s handling of these issues adds to the growing political frustration. This disconnect between government policy and public sentiment on Brexit and related economic matters undermines trust in political leadership and fuels cynicism about the future.
The government as Critical National Infrastructure
The government is a vital part of the UK’s Critical National Infrastructure, responsible for the functioning and security of essential services and the nation’s wellbeing. This status demands that politicians act with seriousness, responsibility, and transparency. Failures in leadership and governance can have cascading effects on national security, economic stability, and public trust.
The need to renew ethical standards in politics
Given the current climate, there is a strong case for renewing The Seven Principles of Public Life, also known as the Nolan Principles, which were first published in 1995. These principles – selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty, and leadership – should be reaffirmed and reinforced to restore trust and ethical behaviour in public office.
Lessons from abroad: Arnold Schwarzenegger’s bipartisanship
Arnold Schwarzenegger, the former governor of California, has urged political leaders to work across party lines to solve pressing issues. His call for bipartisan cooperation in the US offers a valuable lesson for UK politics: that meaningful progress requires compromise and collaboration rather than endless confrontation.
Solutions for overhauling UK politics
To move forward, UK politics needs a thorough overhaul that reduces the blame games and fosters honest, solution-oriented debate.
- Politicians must stop using their opponents as scapegoats and instead engage with the issues directly and constructively. Accountability should be promoted rigorously, with media and public institutions demanding clear answers and consequences when failures occur.
- Reconnecting with the public is essential; politicians need to listen more attentively and act on the real concerns of citizens, especially vulnerable groups who are often overlooked. Renewing and enforcing the Nolan Principles would help restore ethical standards and integrity in public life, ensuring that leaders act with honesty and transparency.
- Encouraging bipartisan cooperation, inspired by examples such as Arnold Schwarzenegger’s call for cross-party collaboration in the United States, could foster unity and practical policymaking in the UK.
- Finally, the UK should look to international models, particularly Scandinavian countries, which consistently rank as the happiest in the world due to their transparent, inclusive, and welfare-oriented governance. Adopting elements of their political culture and social policies could help the UK rebuild trust and improve the wellbeing of its citizens.
Conclusion: straight to the point
I would rather focus on practical solutions than spend endless hours in political debates aimed at winning arguments rather than solving problems. Politics should be about serving the public good, not scoring points or perpetuating division. It is time for UK politics to reset, prioritise honesty, competence, and cooperation, and rebuild the trust that has been so badly eroded.
I want to emphasise that this is not a call to abandon politics altogether. Rather, it’s important to recognise the value of taking a short break from the constant political discourse. Stepping back occasionally is essential for our wellbeing, allowing us to recharge and return with renewed energy and perspective. This balance helps us stay engaged and effective in the long term.
