The History of Bad Ideas: Party Members Choosing Leaders

In this episode of Past Present Future, the hosts explore the evolving process by which British political parties select their leaders. They've shifted from a parliamentary system to one where party members directly vote for their leader. While this change aimed to strengthen the connection between parties and the public, it has instead led to instability and raised concerns about legitimacy. The conversation delves into the repercussions of this shift within both the Conservative and Labour parties, pointing out instances where leaders struggled to gain the support of their parliamentary peers, resulting in government instability and challenges to the democratic process. Ultimately, the speakers contend that allowing a small, unrepresentative group of party members to choose a Prime Minister is inherently undemocratic and warrants reconsideration.