Insight Public Affairs have released their 2014 Political Preview which looks at the defining issues for the year ahead as we move ever closer towards the end of the Coalition and the next General Election.
The Government will face many tests this year. Despite the return to growth, questions will continue to be asked about the Government’s economic policy. In particular, Labour’s narrative around the ‘cost of living crisis’ may still define the conversation ahead of the Chancellor’s Budget on 19 March. There are also potential bumps in the road in many other policy areas, with continued difficulties for the NHS and in the welfare system, and indecision over many major infrastructure projects.
But every decision made across the political landscape this year will be made in the shadow of three major election campaigns. Local and European elections in May will give a more accurate reflection of the party’s standings in the polls. Cameron, and to a lesser extend Miliband, will be keeping a close eye on the performance of UKIP. Then in September, Scottish voters will have the chance to decide on their future place in the UK, in a vote that could change the face of British politics forever.
2014 looks to be a challenging year with decisions made this year potentially impacting on the General Election, now less than 500 days away. Greater tension between the governing parties will be in evidence this year with more personal attacks, more policies leaked, and more media briefings. These are uncharted waters: expect the unexpected!
To see the full 2014 Political Preview, please visit the Insight Public Affairs website.
For more information contact John Lehal by email or call 020 7824 1865.