Radical Thinking: Aditya Chakrabortty asks how Michael Gove justifies ‘inevitably painful’ austerity politics
Gove’s place on the right
For more than three decades, Michael Gove has held a prominent place in British Conservatism. His roles have included journalist, government minister and editor of the Spectator. The discussion with Aditya Chakrabortty considers the direction of the right and Gove’s influence as British Conservatism has moved further rightwards. It also addresses his record on Brexit and austerity.
Austerity and Brexit record
Gove’s record on austerity and Brexit is among the subjects raised in the episode. The headline frames the discussion around his justification of austerity as “inevitably painful.” The episode also looks at the future of the right, linking Gove’s political record with broader questions about where the movement is heading.
The Spectator and Islam
The Spectator’s position on Islam is another topic in the conversation. A Guardian column by Nesrine Malik is recommended for readers seeking further discussion of the magazine and Islamophobia. The accompanying reading list also points readers to writing on Gove’s political history, the Conservative party, and the economic effects of Brexit and the Cameron years.
Key points
- Michael Gove discusses the future of the right with Aditya Chakrabortty.
- The conversation covers Gove’s record on Brexit and austerity.
- The Spectator’s position on Islam is also discussed.
- Gove has worked as a journalist, minister and editor of the Spectator.