Cameron: the Rise of the New Conservative
Francis Elliot and James Hanning
Harper Press, 320pp, 18.99
My question for Francis Elliott and James Hanning’s new biography of David Cameron is straightforward: will it help voters decide? The electorate have already made some decisions: Cameron’s a family man, enjoying affectionate relationships with his wife and kids. This is powerfully reinforced in the moving chapter about Ivan, his severely disabled son.
The book confirms Cameron’s ability to find the bon mot, citing the highly-rated media briefings while at Central Office and speech writing for Norman Lamont. But voters also wonder if his words are a little too well chosen. This view is supported by the book’s account of his clashes with senior journalists while at Carlton. Jeff Randall said: ‘I wouldn’t trust him with my daughter’s pocket money.’
Despite the promise of the title, the book does not define ‘the new Conservative’ and his vision. His privileged early years are care free and politics free. His embryonic career was built on communications skills rather than conviction. He was the last of the new Tory generation to embrace modernisation, and did so reluctantly. The authors conclude: ‘The suspicion remains that Cameron is doing what he believes is electorally necessary without genuine conviction or even a set of organising principles by which to navigate.’ Voters will decide – this book reinforces what they currently believe rather than adding new insight.