Thatcher’s legacy has indeed seen the transformation of the economic and social landscape of the United Kingdom, but at the expense of the working class and vulnerable communities. Her implementation of neoliberal economic policies was characterised by deregulation, privatisation, and austerity measures. These resulted in a widening wealth gap and exacerbated social and economic inequality. These policies favoured the interests of the wealthy elite while diminishing workers’ rights, job security, and access to essential services.
Thatcher’s policies had devastating effects on public services The privatisation of key sectors of the UK infrastructure such as water, electricity and gas have resulted in rocketing bills and fuel poverty. The NHS and social care, plus the education sector didn’t escape the Thatcher treatment, with hollowed out services leading to immense waiting lists and a dwindling and demoralised workforce.
Unfortunately, despite Starmer’s feeble attempt to row back on what he ‘actually’ meant by his praise for Thatcher, all the things listed above are policies that Starmer and his shadow Chancellor Reeves have made clear they intend to keep. The Labour Party’s unflinching commitment to the principles of neo liberal capitalism are not something we are left to guess about – they make it abundantly clear in everything they say and do. This latest bit of pathetic fawning to the establishment is just another example and displays Starmers desperate attempt to court the ruling class, leaving no room for doubt about where he stands.
