Best of the Spectator Coffee House Shots: Jonathan Hinder on Starmer, Mandelson & a 'bad' local elections
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Feb 7, 2026 Jonathan Hinder, Labour backbench MP known for blue Labour views and constituency focus, talks candidly about party strategy and leadership security. He critiques the Mandelson appointment and calls for humility. He warns local elections will be tough, urges a pro-working-class economic agenda, pragmatic energy policy, and tougher, controlled migration measures as a route back.
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Mandelson Appointment Was A Political Error
- Jonathan Hinder says appointing Peter Mandelson was a serious political error that needs humility from the leadership.
- He argues Mandelson's record made him unsuitable for high office regardless of media popularity or connections.
Labour Has Drifted From Working-Class Roots
- Hinder warns Labour has drifted from its working-class base and now polls show private-school voters are likeliest to back Labour.
- He says the party must reorient toward working-class interests and reject a brand perceived as focused on minorities and benefits.
Use Industrial Strategy, Not Just Bigger Spending
- Hinder urges a bolder economic agenda focused on industrial strategy, not just bigger state spending.
- He recommends steering investment into disadvantaged regions and rebuilding state capacity to shape the economy.