The Long History of Illiberalism in UK Politics and Policy

Post-Brexit, UK politics has taken a ‘populist turn’; however, these developments are not entirely new. Beginning with the Thatcher government of the 1980s, this chapter identifies instances whereby an illiberal spirit has animated policymaking over a number of decades. It identifies homophobic and nativist policy interventions deployed during the 1980s, the violent suppression of the striking miners, and support for despotic regimes abroad. New Labour’s suppression of civil liberties, including in anti-terror legislation, is also explored, suggesting that illiberalism in UK politics is not a one-party affair. It then explores the record of the Conservative-Liberal Democrat coalition, critically examining the notion that this period represented a high watermark for liberal conservatism, with reference to the ‘Hostile Environment’ policy, and the decision to hold a referendum on EU membership used to support the notion that this was not necessarily the case. Finally, the chapter identifies linkages between the Conservative Party and groups on the far right of British politics, including the Monday Club, and more recently, the fringe political parties associated with Nigel Farage. In all, it argues that this illiberal strain is prominent, influential, and longstanding.