Andy Becketts call for Labour to practise clear-sighted, ruthless politics (Johnsons Tories seem to defy reality but Labours realistic politics isnt working, 20 August) could gain traction if it asked what the Conservative partys worst nightmare might be. Time and time again it has won general elections by appealing to voters with confected nightmare warnings along the lines of dont let Labour ruin things.
Simply reminding voters that Boris Johnsons administration has been more effective in ruining the country than any other in living memory will not cut it. Neither, it seems, will the charge of incompetence. Somehow the Labour party (and for that matter other non-Conservative parties) must force a change in the terms of debate at a general election.
If a principal part of Labours offer were electoral reform and other constitutional updates, this could do it. Traditionally this has been seen as a soft, peripheral issue of little interest to the majority of voters, but it would force the Conservatives to argue openly for the status quo and to defend their own self-interest. It could be quite a ruthless strategy after all.Geoff Reid Bradford
I read your article with interest and dismay (Labour to pledge shake-up of universal credit as part of wider new deal, 22 August). The governments misnamed universal credit (it is not universal) is certainly in need of radical and urgent reform, and Labours pledge is to be applauded. However, the emphasis of reform remains squarely on conditionality of receipt and promoting work.
There are welcome proposals to reduce the taper rate, but Labour is missing an opportunity for fundamental reform by introducing a universal basic income. Doing so would remove the excessive marginal tax rate for those on low incomes, provide a universal, unconditional income for those out of work, and could be paid for by introducing a progressive tax on higher earners, especially the highest. Universal basic income would also actively challenge the stigma associated with people who claim benefits, and would promote equal citizenship for all. The present system requires reform, but the moral arguments for removing shame, blame and stigma through a universal single citizen approach is compelling. It is a shame that this opportunity has been missed.Jonathan Parker Professor of society and social welfare, Bournemouth University
If Labours proposal of a reduction in the universal credit taper rate, currently set at 63% was meant to be an example of Keir Starmers idea of painting policy in primary colours, it actually looks more like a kind of unclear beige. Is the peoples flag now deepest magnolia rather than red?Derrick Cameron Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire
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Only bold policies will win back Labour voters | Letters
