UK’s zany new political customs were on full display this week – The Irish Times

Modern British politics is increasingly defined by the intersection of centuries-old ceremonial traditions and a new era of disruptive, performative protest. From the physical dragging of a new Speaker of the House of Commons to the chair—a practice rooted in the historical peril of the role—to the rise of activist hecklers like Steve Bray, the Westminster landscape is shifting. Recent events, including the resignation of Keir Starmer, demonstrate how political departures are now routinely accompanied by high-decibel auditory protests, signaling a departure from the formality that once characterized government transitions.

How Have Political Protests Changed in Westminster?

Protest in the shadow of Downing Street has evolved from static picketing to “aural vandalism,” according to media reports. Steve Bray, a long-term campaigner, has become a fixture of the Westminster environment, frequently using high-powered sound systems to broadcast music during significant political moments. While Rishi Sunak’s 2024 election announcement was punctuated by the sound of “Things Can Only Get Better,” Keir Starmer’s recent resignation speech was nearly obscured by the instrumental version of Beethoven’s “Ode to Joy.” According to Channel Four News, Bray stated his intention was to drown out a separate right-wing heckler rather than the Prime Minister himself, though the backlash from figures like journalist Andrew Neil—who labeled him a “buffoon”—suggests the tactic is increasingly viewed as a disruption of democratic discourse rather than a contribution to it.

Why Are Prime Ministers Leaving Office More Frequently?

The “defenestration” of prime ministers has become a recurring theme in British politics, with five of the last six leaders since 2016 leaving office due to internal party pressure rather than general election defeats. Only Rishi Sunak was explicitly ejected by voters, according to political records. David Cameron’s departure followed a public rejection during the Brexit vote, but leaders such as Theresa May, Boris Johnson, and Liz Truss were removed by their own MPs. This trend suggests a shift in parliamentary power, where the internal stability of the governing party has become the primary determinant of a leader’s longevity, far outweighing traditional electoral cycles.

What Role Do Novelty Candidates Play in Elections?

The tradition of comedy or novelty candidates has remained a consistent, if fringe, feature of British elections since the 1960s, when Screaming Lord Sutch first entered the political arena. This trend continues today, as seen during the recent Makerfield by-election. According to reports from the count, the winner, Andy Burnham, was flanked by a candidate dressed as a fox and “Count Binface”—a character portrayed by comedian Jon Harvey—who secured 95 votes. While these candidates rarely impact the outcome, they highlight a persistent public appetite for satirical engagement with the political process, serving as a barometer for voter disillusionment or, conversely, a desire to participate in the spectacle of democracy.

Did You Know?

The tradition of holding an MP “hostage” at Buckingham Palace during the King’s Speech is a real, ongoing practice. The MP is kept at the Palace to ensure the monarch’s safety until they return to the House of Lords. Last month, Scunthorpe MP Nic Dakin fulfilled this role, watching the proceedings on television while supplied with tea and shortbread.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Steve Bray’s style of protest legal?

While his methods have drawn sharp criticism from journalists like Lewis Goodall and Andrew Neil, who have described him as a “yob,” Bray continues to operate within the established spaces of Westminster, exercising his right to protest despite the ongoing backlash regarding noise levels.

Why do MPs get “dragged” to the Speaker’s chair?

The practice is a symbolic nod to history. In the past, the Speaker was responsible for conveying bad news to the monarch, a task that historically led to several Speakers being executed. The reluctance to take the role is now commemorated through a mock struggle.

Are novelty candidates a new phenomenon?

No. Comedy candidates like Screaming Lord Sutch have been running for office since the 1960s, proving that satirical protest is a long-standing tradition in British parliamentary elections.

What do you think about the changing nature of political protests in the UK? Should there be stricter regulations on sound equipment near government buildings, or is this a vital part of free speech? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below or subscribe to our weekly newsletter for more deep dives into the mechanics of Westminster.