I recently joined Jamila on the Mod Cons podcast for a wide-ranging conversation about politics, campaigning, communications and the future of the Conservative Party.
We covered everything from my own route into politics, to working in Downing Street, to the importance of good political communications, Labour’s damaging approach to the economy, and why I remain optimistic about the future of Conservatism under Kemi Badenoch’s leadership.
One of the things I reflected on was why I became involved in politics in the first place. Like many people, I did not grow up surrounded by politics or political insiders. What drew me to the Conservative Party was its belief in aspiration, responsibility and opportunity: the idea that people should be able to build a better life for themselves and their families through hard work and determination.
That remains what I love about the Conservative Party today.
At its best, our party is practical, optimistic and rooted in the real lives of working people. It believes in backing ambition, rewarding enterprise and helping people get on in life. It believes strong communities matter. It believes families should keep more of what they earn. And it believes government works best when it empowers people rather than controls them.
That is why I spoke strongly on the podcast about Labour’s attack on aspiration, particularly through its decision to impose VAT on independent school fees.
For many families, independent schools are not about privilege. They are about sacrifice. Parents making difficult financial decisions because they want to give their children the best possible start in life.
Punishing those choices with additional taxation sends entirely the wrong message. It risks increasing pressure on the state sector while targeting families who are already contributing significantly through taxation. More fundamentally, it reflects a mindset that too often sees aspiration as something to tax rather than something to encourage.
We also discussed the future of the Conservative Party and why I believe significant progress has already been made under Kemi Badenoch.
After a difficult period for the party, there is now a much clearer sense of purpose and direction emerging. Kemi has brought energy, conviction and honesty to the leadership. She understands that voters want authenticity and seriousness, not managerial politics or empty slogans.
Importantly, she has also been willing to speak clearly about the need for economic competence, lower taxation, personal responsibility and a government that lives within its means - principles that matter enormously at a time when Labour’s economic approach is already creating uncertainty and concern.
Of course, there is still much more to do. Rebuilding trust always takes time. But there are encouraging signs that the Conservative Party is rediscovering its confidence and reconnecting with the values that have always made it successful.
We also touched on political communications and campaigning. One of the lessons I have learned over the years is that voters can spot authenticity a mile away. People respond to politicians who sound human, who understand everyday concerns and who can explain not just what they believe, but why they believe it.
That matters whether you are campaigning locally, working in government or trying to persuade people nationally.
The conversation also included reflections on my time working in Downing Street and the intensity of political life at the centre of government. It was a fascinating experience that reinforced for me just how important leadership, discipline and communication are when navigating major national challenges.
Most importantly though, the discussion was hopeful.
Britain remains an extraordinary country with enormous strengths, talent and potential. I believe the Conservative Party still has a vital role to play in shaping that future - championing aspiration, backing enterprise and ensuring that hard work and responsibility are rewarded.
Thank you again to Mod Cons for having me on!
