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In British political history only four Labour prime ministers have won general elections outright: Clement Attlee, Harold Wilson, Tony Blair and now Sir Keir Starmer. Only Mr Blair and Mr Starmer are still alive.
Tony Blair says “of course” he talks to his successor frequently. Contradicting a report that he has been texting Mr Starmer advising on the transition into government, Mr Blair insists that they only discuss things and that he does not offer advice directly.
He can say that again. In his new 328-page manual On Leadership, the former prime minister writes: “A leader needs to generate optimism. No one wants to get on a plane with a depressed pilot. You want the person in charge to look like they have something to live for. They need to exude confidence, not anxiety.”
The current prime minister is certainly not listening to that what with his “things can only get worse…” pep talk to the nation.
The “…before they get better” coda to that message has yet to be elaborated on by the new government. Mr Starmer’s optimism for the future seems to go no further than reversing damage allegedly done by the Tories.
Comparisons will inevitably be drawn between the fresh observations from the last Labour prime minister and the baby steps in the first few months of the new Labour government.
Mr Blair’s ideas range far wider than Britain but he will also be aware that he is echoing Mr Starmer’s words when he talks about “missions” for government and needing 10 years to turn a country around.
Mr Blair’s re-entry into public debate is the most significant step so far in his bid for political rehabilitation.
‘I would have stayed if I could’
He is backing up his book, subtitled Lessons For The 21st Century, with public events and prominently-placed media interviews. Aged 71, he is still vigorous and ready to put his thoughts into the national conversation.
Mr…
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