This year’s Conservative party merchandise showcase was brimming with branded items, yet a notable absence caught the eye.
Not a single trace of Kemi Badenoch could be found at the Conservative Party conference in Manchester. While images of former Prime Ministers Margaret Thatcher and Winston Churchill adorned the shop, the current party leader’s presence was noticeably lacking.
Thatcher’s legacy was prominently featured, reflecting the Tories’ heightened admiration for the late Prime Minister, who passed away in 2013. The display included cardboard cutouts of Thatcher, her iconic quotes embellishing the walls, and even a Thatcher museum showcasing her renowned outfits, marking a peak in Thatcher-centric items this year.
The emphasis on Thatcher can be attributed to the upcoming commemoration of her 100th birthday, post the Tory conference. This focus raises questions about the Conservative Party’s inclination towards nostalgia over progress, especially as their popularity continues to decline in polls.
While the Tories have introduced ambitious policies such as mass deportations and benefit cuts, criticized for lacking feasibility, their reluctance to invest in future-oriented merchandise hints at a conservative spending approach. The uncertainty surrounding Badenoch’s leadership tenure also plays a role in steering clear of heavy investments in her memorabilia.
As a result, the merchandise lineup largely consists of recycled items from previous years, including Thatcher-themed mugs and Christmas decorations. The range features Thatcher mugs with the famous “no, no, no” slogan, priced at £15, and festive baubles with a political twist for £18.50.
Enthusiasts can also acquire Toby jug-style busts of Thatcher for £47.50, with a rush to purchase online due to high demand. Additionally, a Thatcher-branded single malt whisky is available for £95, catering to collectors and fans alike.
Other items on sale include Tory-logo silk ties for £34.50, matching socks priced at £13.50, and cufflinks bearing the party emblem for £20 each or three for £50. Furthermore, the party offers navy Tory hoodies made in Nicaragua for £14.50 and t-shirts reading “Don’t Blame Me, I Voted Conservative” made in Morocco for £10.
These products, while seemingly poking fun at Labour’s history in power, may inadvertently highlight the Tories’ long-standing tenure in office. The merchandise range reflects a blend of tradition and contemporary politics, catering to diverse preferences within the conservative support base.
