With a new parliament and new government upon us following Friday’s general election results, you’re no doubt beginning to navigate the complexities of the changing political landscape.
A feature of the British political system is the immediate transfer of power when an incumbent government is defeated. Ministers get straight to work on their new portfolios, and policy direction can shift in the blink of an eye.
There’s no transition period for the government, and neither is there one for those whose job it is to keep abreast of and influence public policy. The upheaval presents unique challenges and opportunities for those navigating the world of public affairs.
New Faces, New Challenges
The post 2024 general election period represents the best opportunity to influence public policy in a quarter of a century.
This is due to the scale of change that we’ve just witness at Westminster, and the arrival of 335 new MPs.
132 MPs stepped down ahead of the election, taking with them a staggering 300 years of ministerial know-how and 2,200 years of parliamentary experience, according to a study by political consultancy Inflect.
A further 218 MPs were unseated, taking the total who have left since the last parliament to 350.
As for the new MP intake, their sensibilities will define policy decisions well into the 2030s on headline issues such as drugs, net zero, assisted dying and right across the policy spectrum.
The Implications
One of the primary challenges facing public affairs professionals is building relationships with new MPs.
This task involves understanding their backgrounds, experiences, and areas of expertise.
Research by Polimapper ahead of the election showed that 28% of prime candidates – those in key target seats or succeeding an MP who is stepping down – have spent most of their careers in political roles, while only 1.8% have a clinical medicine background, and 5% each in teaching and science and technology. Additionally, 5% have served in the armed forces.
Select committees and All-Party Parliamentary Groups (APPGs) will need to be reformulated, and the knowledge and interests of new members will shape their focus and effectiveness.
This transitional period presents an opportunity for public affairs professionals to establish fresh connections and influence the future direction of policy and legislative initiatives.
Engaging with new MPs post-election requires a thoughtful approach. Don’t expect too much to come from emailing MPs right after the election — a simple “congratulations” to get on their radar will suffice and give you something to build on in the weeks ahead.
Timeframes and Strategic Planning
The new Parliament is scheduled to meet on Tuesday, 9 July 2024, for the election of the Speaker and the swearing-in of members. The State Opening of Parliament and the King’s Speech will follow on Wednesday, 17 July 2024.
Alongside these critical dates, public affairs professionals will be planning for the autumn, when the crucial legislative work and party conferences begin.
If the polls are accurate, Keir Starmer will become Prime Minister on July 5.
Forming Government: Sue Gray, Starmer’s chief of staff, will oversee the cabinet formation by Friday, with junior ministers appointed over the weekend.
International Relations: Immediate calls with leaders like Joe Biden, followed by a NATO summit on July 9 and a European Political Community summit on July 18.
New Parliament: MPs sworn in from July 9, with the King’s Speech outlining legislative priorities on July 17.
Urgent Decisions: Address public sector pay and set up compensation for infected blood scandal victims. Budget planning for mid-September, focusing on tax and public spending.
Starmer’s initial days will be a mix of setting up his government, engaging with global leaders, and tackling pressing domestic issues.
Understanding the timelines and key events will enable professionals to engage effectively with the fresh batch of MPs and the revamped Parliament.
The evolving political landscape presents both challenges and opportunities. Building relationships with new MPs, understanding their backgrounds, and navigating the timelines of the new Parliament are essential for effective engagement.
As we move into this new era, Polimapper can help you stand out from the crowd and drive meaningful engagement in this rapidly changing environment.
