{"id":731327,"date":"2024-02-21T07:41:03","date_gmt":"2024-02-21T07:41:03","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.architectsjournal.co.uk\/?p=731327"},"modified":"2024-02-21T10:58:15","modified_gmt":"2024-02-21T10:58:15","slug":"this-is-the-year-to-get-political-and-make-the-case-for-what-you-believe-in","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.architectsjournal.co.uk\/news\/opinion\/this-is-the-year-to-get-political-and-make-the-case-for-what-you-believe-in","title":{"rendered":"This is the year to get political and make the case for what you believe in"},"content":{"rendered":"

Having barely emerged from the tumult of Brexit and the Covid-19 pandemic, the UK\u2019s political framework and resolve have been tested to their limits in recent months. As a beleaguered Tory administration prepares for what must be an election year, with polls suggesting a Labour victory of over 40 per cent of the vote<\/a>, it appears that the nation may continue to grapple with the absence of long-term, strategic governance, especially in areas such as housing and the environment.<\/p>\n

Many in our industry have lamented that these key areas are treated as political footballs, leading to inconsistency and a lack of continuity, with no fewer than nine housing ministers appointed since 2019. This instability hampers meaningful, long-term dialogue with the government. Election years typically bring a flurry of promising rhetoric, yet the reality often leaves those seeking to shape policy in a holding pattern, awaiting the outcomes of political power-shifts.<\/p>\n

However, there may be alternative approaches to influencing the political landscape without sitting idly by waiting for an election result. As someone deeply committed to sustainability, I\u2019ve experienced at first hand the value of engagement beyond the political spectacle, notably through my role as the Unlock Net Zero ambassador. A case in point was my encounter with Selvin Brown, a distinguished civil servant whose career has spanned over 20 years and seven prime ministers. My conversation with Selvin offered a refreshing perspective on environmental and housing issues, untainted by party politics.<\/p>\n

This interaction led me to realise that our time might be better spent engaging with individuals like Selvin, who remain through changing administrations. The failure to combat climate change effectively is partly due to the lack of a united, cross-party approach. While advocating for such a consensus might seem futile in an election year, engaging with the civil service could be a more fruitful strategy. Despite the example of Tom Scholar, the senior economic official unceremoniously fired by Liz Truss before she and Kwasi Kwarteng delivered their famously disastrous mini-budget, civil servants generally maintain their positions through electoral cycles, providing continuity and insight into policy implementation that survives political upheavals.<\/p>\n

Many architectural practices are deliberating on strategic political alliances<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Many architectural practices around the country are deliberating on strategic political alliances to forge and mechanisms through which they can influence meaningful policy transformations. Understanding the intricacies of forthcoming policy shifts and the government\u2019s approach to funding essential programmes like retrofitting is not just crucial for our businesses but is imperative for the areas architects care most about.<\/p>\n

Why not identify the government department that aligns with your field of interest and establish a dialogue with the highest-ranking official willing to engage? While they may not make policies, their role in policy implementation is pivotal. Engaging with them can unlock insights into historical policy and give an insight into future policy. This knowledge is invaluable, equipping you with the foresight and knowledge necessary to not only adapt to but potentially help steer the direction of future government initiatives.<\/p>\n

Grassroots action is also key to influencing political landscapes, particularly in critical sectors like housing and the environment. Engaging with your local MP or opposition candidates through letters or meetings can effectively raise issues and foster potential support. And don\u2019t forget your local councillors. Remember that crafting a clear, appealing message without self-interest is crucial for your credibility.<\/p>\n

Another effective route can be lobbying relevant Commons and Lords committees if you get the mix of advocacy and activism right. The work of architect and whole-life carbon expert Simon Sturgis, a special adviser to the Commons Environmental Audit Select Committee, exemplifies how such expertise can guide sustainable policy development.<\/p>\n

The battle against climate change demands a warlike strategy, including a bipartisan consensus, which is notably absent in 2024. So, perhaps this is the year to get political and make the case for what you believe in. In fact, you may gain a head start on the clamouring crowds as they vie to influence new ministers once the new government is known.<\/p>\n

Kunle Barker is a property expert, journalist and broadcaster<\/i><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

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