Conservative politicians Sir Andy Street and Baroness Ruth Davidson have launched a new movement called Prosper UK. Their aim is to attract millions of “politically homeless” voters and shift the party toward the centre.
The Tories suffered their worst general election result in 2024, losing votes to the rising Reform UK party. Consequently, Prosper UK wants to offer a broad policy platform to reclaim those lost supporters.
Minutes after the launch, former home secretary Suella Braverman defected to Reform UK, raising the party’s MPs to eight. Nevertheless, Sir Andy and Lady Davidson stressed that Prosper UK could help the Conservatives regain momentum.
Co-chairman Sir Andy Street, former mayor of the West Midlands, said he had a productive meeting with Kemi Badenoch. He described it as a “mature conversation” that showed potential alignment with Prosper UK’s goals.
Sir Andy added that the movement intends to “take the battle to the populists.” He explained that most Britons identify as centre or centre-right and that Prosper UK seeks to appeal to them. He also emphasized that Conservatives must compete not only against Labour but also against populist alternatives.
Lady Ruth Davidson, former leader of the Scottish Conservatives, stated that Prosper UK wants Kemi Badenoch to lead the party into the next election. Moreover, she encouraged Badenoch to present a broad policy platform to shape national debate. She said politics is too important to be left solely to professional politicians.
Prosper UK claims it has identified seven million voters who feel no party currently represents them. Lady Davidson said the movement could help provide a voice for those voters while strengthening Conservative support.
Vice-chairman David Gauke clarified that Prosper UK is not a single-issue group focused on Brexit. Instead, it allows supporters to hold differing views on the UK’s relationship with the EU while contributing to policy discussions.
Shadow policing minister Matt Vickers welcomed input from Prosper UK. He said the Conservatives remain committed to right-leaning policies, focusing on a stronger economy and stronger borders. Furthermore, he noted that public feedback could help energize the party’s economic platform.
Overall, Prosper UK seeks to push the Conservative Party toward centrism while addressing voter concerns and preparing for the next general election. With its creation, Sir Andy Street and Lady Ruth Davidson hope to strengthen Conservative unity and appeal.
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