Isabel Hardman has written what is arguably the most concise and precise analysis of how Westminster works, or more often fails to.
Why We Get the Wrong Politicians is something which should be handed out to every candidate before running for Parliament. The fact that such a thorough and eye-opening book has taken so long to appear seems like an indictment of Britain’s political system. Or, perhaps it took someone as young, politically independent, and willing to question traditions as Hardman to finally find the flaws and to remind us that change, however elusive, is still possible.
Crucially, her book is neither satire, nor fires cheap shots. Instead, she methodically unpacks the layers of complexity baked into becoming and serving as an MP. Exposing why the field is so stubbornly dominated by rich, older white men, especially the executive. She lays out how party gatekeepers, the “old boys’ group”, and prohibitive personal costs repeatedly lock out those from more diverse or working-class backgrounds. This helps explain why so many potentially brilliant, hard-working candidates see their paths to Westminster blocked.
Once inside Parliament, the dysfunction continues. Hardman reveals the often baffling buildings, the long waits for office space, and the lack of clear direction for new MPs – all while they juggle constituency work, potential ministerial duties, trying to act as a legislator, and the archaic parliamentary timetable. She points out how easily good legislation can be smothered by outdated procedures, or the issue of party whips and frontbench grandstanding can leave backbench MPs, who may be genuinely dedicated to serving their constituents, consigned to the sideline by threats to local funding for instance, in order to see things (or not) passed.
Remarkably, the House of Lords, an unelected chamber, emerges as the only body where bills receive thorough scrutiny, though can lack the power to stop some questionable laws from sailing through. Hardman also touches on the emotional and physical toll of public life in Westminster, including its impact on MPs’ families and mental health.
Throughout the book, Hardman maintains a respectful stance toward many of the MPs she interviews, acknowledging that the system itself, rather than any single individual, is often the root problem.
Why We Get the Wrong Politicians doesn’t waste time pointing fingers or offering easy scapegoats for Britain’s current political turbulence. Instead, it highlights the structures that shape our political choices and calls for a overhaul. Ranging from reconsidering how we fund a potential MP’s campaign, to moving Parliament to a modern, purpose-built space rather than endlessly patching up the old Palace of Westminster.
The result is a fascinating, sobering, and deeply necessary glimpse into the reality of political life, from the initial decision to stand for election to the bitter aftermath of losing a seat.
Anyone curious about the inner workings of government, or who wants to see genuine diversity and accountability in Westminster, will find this an interesting read.
