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Sir Roger Scruton: The ten principles that should form the foundation of a modern Conservative policy.
1. The Nation State is the sole vehicle for democratic legitimacy...
1. The Nation State is the sole vehicle for democratic legitimacy...
2. Civil society depends upon a common loyalty and a territorial law, and these cannot be achieved or retained without borders. Immigration must therefore be controlled and contained...
3. The nation state requires the sovereignty of Parliament. The right to vote out our rulers and to change our law is the premise of democratic politics...
4. As believers in civil society conservatives must protect the institutions and customs that turn human animals into responsible citizens...
5. We must make the environment, the countryside, and the settled communities of our nation into priorities of government. Conservatism is a philosophy of inheritance and stewardship; it does not squander resources but conserves and enhances them...
6. The State should not be permitted to confiscate the work of civil society...
7. Freeing civil society must go hand in hand with encouraging small businesses and economic initiatives. The regulations that make it difficult for people to help their neighbours also make it difficult for them to help themselves...
8. Education must reflect the real interest of future generations...
9. Law and order must regain their place at the centre of political thinking. We have too many laws, too loosely applied. The safety of citizens, and their freedom to go about their business undisturbed, must be a priority...
10. Conservatives should advocate a cultural policy that reaffirms our national heritage and values. Such a policy should acquaint the people of this country with the institutions, traditions and achievements of which they can be proud...
