Liz Truss Launches New Tory Faction
Former PM Criticizes Colleagues
Former Prime Minister Liz Truss has initiated a new right-wing faction within the Conservative party, launching a scathing criticism against her fellow Tory members whom she accuses of being more focused on their future job prospects rather than serving the country. Truss, who led the Tories for 49 days and faced criticism for her handling of the economy during her short tenure, expressed her disappointment, stating that some MPs prioritize popularity at social gatherings over making principled decisions for the nation. Interestingly, she revealed that she herself is not included in these exclusive social events.
Controversial Statements and Accusations
During the faction’s unveiling, Truss labeled environmentalists and LGBTQ rights advocates as “extremists” and likened them to repackaged Communists. The event also featured former Tory deputy chairman Lee Anderson dismissing concerns about green issues, referring to those who raise such topics as “odd weirdos.” Meanwhile, rising Tory star Mhairi Fraser criticized Chancellor Rishi Sunak’s proposed smoking ban, with the presence of former UKIP leader Nigel Farage adding to the political fervor.
Unpopularity and Defiance
Despite recent polls indicating Truss’s unpopularity among major UK politicians, she defiantly spoke out against the current political climate, decrying what she termed as “wokeism” and criticizing her colleagues for prioritizing personal gain over conservative values. Truss emphasized the need to challenge the narrative promoted by what she perceives as socialist elements within the activist community, urging for a return to core conservative principles.
Resistance and Contrarian Views
The new faction, named Popular Conservatives, intends to push back against the declining appeal of the Conservative party. Truss rallied supporters, highlighting the presence of closeted Conservatives in society who fear expressing their beliefs openly due to societal pressures. She lambasted attempts by fellow party members to cater to public opinion, accusing some cabinet ministers of pandering to activist figures like Greta Thunberg at the expense of conservative ideals.
Challenges and Divergent Voices
Various prominent figures within the Tory party, including Priti Patel, Lord David Frost, and Dame Andrea Jenkyns, attended the faction’s inaugural event. Despite Truss’s polarizing reputation, her message resonated with some attendees, especially regarding contentious issues like environmental policies and personal freedoms. The faction’s members challenge the existing political landscape, advocating for a conservative resurgence in the face of mounting opposition within the party.
FAQs
What prompted Liz Truss to establish the new Tory right-wing faction?
Liz Truss founded the faction due to her disillusionment with colleagues prioritizing personal ambitions over national interests and conservative values.
Who did Liz Truss criticize during the faction launch?
Truss criticized environmentalists, LGBTQ rights activists, and fellow Conservatives whom she accused of deviating from core conservative principles.
What is the stance of Popular Conservatives on the current political climate?
Popular Conservatives aim to resist the prevailing political trends and uphold traditional conservative beliefs in the face of societal challenges.
How did attendees react to criticisms raised during the faction’s launch event?
Some attendees, including notable Tory figures, expressed support for the faction’s contrarian views on issues such as environmental policies and personal freedoms.
What sets the Popular Conservatives apart from other right-wing groups in the Conservative party?
The Popular Conservatives distinguish themselves by advocating for a return to fundamental conservative values and challenging the status quo within the party’s ideological spectrum.
