The new politics: Liberal Conservatism or same old Tories?

Description

Does the Coalition government represent a new politics in Britain, or is the new government just the same old Tories hiding behind an opportunist pact with the Liberal Democrats? Does Cameron differ from past Conservatives like Margaret Thatcher, and if so, how? This book looks at the Coalition government in the context of conservative ideas and seeks to assess what, if anything, is new about it. The book is aimed at undergraduates and those interested in the future direction of politics in the UK.

Peter King is Reader in Social Thought at De Montfort University, Leicester. He is the author of many books including one on the right to buy entitled Housing Policy Transformed (Policy, 2010). His research interests include welfare reform, housing subsidies and conservative social thought.

"Peter King brings a detailed understanding of both conservatism and the mechanics of government to this significant work, which takes us intelligently through the largely uncharted waters of coalition government." Simon Heffer, Associate Editor The Daily Telegraph "Peter King's book is an accessible but erudite exploration of the complex relationship between the reactionary and the progressive impulses and ideas that have so often helped the Conservatives come to and keep power - and arguably still help them today. It offers readers a refreshing perspective on David Cameron, placing him in context and showing how the Conservatives can be the 'same old Tories' yet still offer something new." Tim Bale, Professor of Politics, University of Sussex.