Dear John,

According to Keir Starmer, the far-right is a “very real threat ([link removed]) ” that needs to be combatted. But what’s his plan to push back?

Starmer has emphasised, in recent public appearances, the importance of systemic and lasting change. He claims he wants to shift the very “foundations” of our politics and our economy, a process he acknowledges will be “painful.” To beat the far-right, and get Britain functioning again, we need to plan ahead, Starmer says.

Under the First-Past-The-Post (FPTP) voting system, achieving lasting political change is almost impossible due to two main factors:
1. FPTP amplifies the ‘political pendulum’ effect: Government typically alternates between two dominant parties with vastly different ideologies and priorities. This constant back-and-forth prevents the establishment of a consistent, long-term national agenda.
2. FPTP leads to a lack of policy continuity: Even when significant changes ARE implemented by one government, they are vulnerable to being overturned or drastically altered when the opposing party comes to power. This instability means that reforms, even major ones, may not endure beyond a single term or administration.

Starmer himself has said that he needs 10 years to get the country moving again. So, what happens if the Conservative Party - or Reform UK - win a big majority at the next election in 2029?

Proportional Representation is about building a political system based on balance and compromise – a system in which more, smaller parties are forced to build a collective policy vision for the country. For ordinary people and businesses alike, that balance creates a greater sense of stability – one election is vastly less likely to completely disrupt the agenda.

Starmer claims that he can fix Britain and stave off the far-right “through delivery, through showing there are progressive, democratic answers to the many challenges we face.”

To find those answers and ensure they endure, we need a truly representative democracy where every vote counts and every voice is heard. Without implementing Proportional Representation as a crucial first step, Starmer's ambitious plans risk crumbling before they even begin.

All the best,

Mark Kieran

CEO, Open Britain
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