How To Win An Election How The Energy Shock Helps Starmer Survive
Apr 2, 2026
Polly Mackenzie, policy expert on energy and resilience. Sally Morgan, former Labour chief of staff with Downing Street stories. Daniel Finkelstein, Times columnist on electoral strategy. They discuss whether governments are ready for an energy shock. They debate energy efficiency, competing cost-of-living offers, political timing around May votes, and how messaging and momentum shape recruiting and support.
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1999 Downing Street Felt Like A Sixth Form Common Room
- Sally Morgan recalled running a lively political office in 1999 with garish posters, loud music and bright young staff.
- Patrick's archive description matched her memory of a fun, energetic team near the Cabinet Room.
Iced Buns And Office Hierarchies
- Polly Mackenzie remembered Steve Hilton's deputy Rohan Silver bringing two iced buns from Greg's, which she watched them eat without offering one.
- The anecdote highlights the informal, snack-filled culture in some political offices.
Tell The Public It's Going To Be Tough
- Be honest with the public about the pain ahead and ask people to share the burden.
- Sally Morgan argues government should say this will be tough and call for collective effort rather than pretend nothing will happen.