Analysing the Conservative Party's 2024 Manifesto Through a Policy Design Lens
Leveraging concepts from the Lighthouse Policy Design framework such as the Policy Matrix and Levers, let's explore some key elements of the Conservative party manifesto through the lens of strategic policy development
What is The Policy Matrix?
The Policy Matrix is home to 16 Policy Levers spread across quadrants
The Policy Matrix is a powerful tool for policymakers, enabling them to categorise and select Policy Levers based on the urgency of impact and the method of implementation.
A ‘Policy Lever’ is a tool that policymakers can use to influence outcomes in specific areas. Levers can take various forms, such as regulations, incentives, public awareness campaigns, partnerships, or direct interventions.
The Economy
The Conservative Party's manifesto emphasises economic stability through tax cuts, deregulation, and investment in infrastructure. They aim to stimulate growth by using the Tax and Regulate levers, focusing on reducing taxes for businesses, streamlining regulations, and enhancing infrastructure projects.
Risks:
Reduced tax revenue: could impact public services.
Regulatory risks: Deregulation could lead to oversight issues and long-term risks.
Health
The manifesto promises increased NHS funding, faster GP appointments, and mental health support. Leveraging Subsidise and Innovate, they plan to allocate substantial resources to the NHS and introduce new healthcare technologies and practices.
Risks:
Sustainability: Continuous funding increases may strain the budget.
Implementation: Integrating new technologies and processes in the NHS might face resistance and logistical issues.
Education
Conservative education policies focus on raising school standards, expanding apprenticeships, and improving vocational training. They use the Subsidise and Educate levers to provide financial support for schools and introduce reforms aimed at enhancing educational outcomes.
Risks:
Funding allocation: Ensuring equitable distribution of funds across different regions and schools.
Adaptation: Implementing reforms may require significant time and teacher training.
Environment
The Conservatives propose measures for cleaner energy and environmental conservation. By employing the Regulate and Innovate levers, they aim to set stricter environmental standards and invest in green technologies. Immediate actions include reducing plastic waste and protecting biodiversity, highlighting a strategic mix of Regulate and Collaborate levers.
Risks:
Economic impact: Stricter regulations could increase costs for businesses.
Public acceptance: Gaining widespread support for new environmental policies might be challenging.
Crime and Justice
The manifesto focuses on tougher sentencing, increased police funding, and support for victims. Using the Mobilise, Legislate, and Sanction levers, they plan to implement immediate changes to the justice system and enhance public safety. Additionally, Innovate and Collaborate levers are utilised in rehabilitation services to reduce reoffending.
Risks:
Resource allocation: Ensuring sufficient resources and training for law enforcement.
Public perception: Balancing tough-on-crime policies with rehabilitation efforts to avoid criticism.
Summary
The snapshot of the Conservative manifesto we've analysed, outlines a strategy for economic growth, improved healthcare, and strengthened public safety through a mix of policy levers. However, there are recurring risks and potential over-reliance on certain levers that warrant consideration.
Firstly, the heavy use of the Tax lever for cuts and incentives may lead to reduced tax revenue, impacting public services and necessitating cuts in other areas or increased borrowing.
In response to concerns about funding risks, the Conservative Party would highlight that their manifesto is fully costed and fiscally responsible. According to their costings document, the measures are designed to be fully funded across the forecast period, with a target to reduce borrowing by 2029-30.
They would emphasise that tax cuts are balanced by welfare reforms and efforts to tackle tax avoidance, ensuring that the overall fiscal impact is managed prudently. Additionally, they would argue that their policies are expected to stimulate economic growth, further offsetting potential funding gaps.
Secondly, the reliance on the Regulate lever, particularly in deregulation and environmental policies, could face implementation challenges and potential public resistance. Deregulation might lead to oversight issues, while stricter environmental standards could increase costs for businesses.
Lastly, while the Innovate lever offers promising advancements in healthcare and environmental strategies, the success of these innovations heavily depends on effective execution and public acceptance. Without robust implementation frameworks and widespread buy-in, these innovative measures might not achieve their intended impact.