I will cover this as a specific COVID example and then in a more generic policy manner. At the outset of the COVID pandemic there was significant concern that there would be significant mortality in all ages groups, including those without underlying health conditions. Comparisons were made to the 1918 Spanish Flu Pandemic and there was a legitimate concern that this could indiscriminately decimate the population. As the pandemic progressed and the mantra of ‘follow the science’ became prevalent, an opportunity was missed to minimise impact on the economy and population. A demonstrable argument based on evidence could have been made that the majority of the healthy population under 50 years of age could have continued normal life without unmanageable risk to the NHS. This would have mitigated a level of impact to businesses and individuals whilst not irresponsibly raising risk levels. Expanding this beyond COVID could greatly assist in improving the public perception of UK politics, with the reducing levels of public engagement something that has been a regular appearance in news articles over recent years. Sharing the reasoning and underpinning evidence that informs policy decisions would be a rapid way to both instil public confidence but also to prevent any baseless challenges and verbal posturing from other parties. In short, provide the key supporting and detracting evidence for a decision, thereby empowering the British public and removing the environment for speculation and rhetoric to thrive. I strongly believe that this radical shift in information sharing and willingness to trust the public to understand the need to balance risk with the greater good of the country will result in both greater public support for British politics, but also a stronger nation.
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