Distorting discourse: transparent debate needs sincerity, not soundbites

‘Big Society’ and ‘green government’ disappeared, tax credits policy U-turned twice while still imposing cuts, and ‘economically responsible’ austerity ignored economists’ criticisms and evidence of exacerbated poverty. Liam Anderson argues that, while certainly not unique to this cabinet, the disconnect between rhetoric and action characterises their communications with the public generally. This lacks sincerity and transparency, and undermines substantial debate over government policy and the austerity narrative.