Former UK politicians launch 'Prosper UK' to revive Conservatives

New center-right group led by Ruth Davidson and Andy Street faces skepticism over its nostalgic approach

Jan. 29, 2026 at 3:55am

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Prosper UK, a new political vehicle launched by former Conservative politicians Ruth Davidson and Andy Street, has faced criticism for its perceived nostalgic and backward-looking approach to reviving the Conservative Party. The group's list of initial supporters has been described as a 'collection of old names, selling old nostrums', with commentators questioning whether the group's focus on competence and traditional Tory values can resonate in the current political landscape.

Why it matters

The launch of Prosper UK highlights the challenges facing the Conservative Party as it seeks to redefine itself after a series of electoral setbacks. The group's leadership by Davidson and Street, who built their reputations in devolved politics, raises questions about whether their approach can translate to the national stage. Additionally, Prosper UK's reliance on 'former' Conservatives raises concerns about its ability to offer a fresh vision for the party's future.

The details

Prosper UK was launched by former Scottish Conservative leader Ruth Davidson and ex-mayor of Birmingham Andy Street as a vehicle to take the party 'back to the centre-ground of politics'. However, the group's promotional materials and list of initial supporters have been criticized as nostalgic and out of touch. Commentators have noted that many of Prosper UK's backers were associated with David Cameron's 'modernization' efforts, suggesting the group represents a return to the past rather than a vision for the future.

  • Prosper UK was launched in early 2026.

The players

Ruth Davidson

A former leader of the Scottish Conservative Party who is now co-leading Prosper UK's efforts to revive the party.

Andy Street

The former mayor of Birmingham and co-leader of the Prosper UK initiative.

Juliet Samuel

A commentator who wrote a critical article about Prosper UK in The Times.

@JCS_H94 (or 'Joe')

A social media user who described Prosper UK's initial supporter list as 'Former UK'.

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What they’re saying

“Watching their promotional videos is like eating a Smint: you can just about tell what it's trying to get at but as soon as the strangely disagreeable morsel is swallowed, you wish you hadn't bothered.”

— Juliet Samuel, Commentator

“Former UK”

— @JCS_H94 (or 'Joe')

What’s next

The Prosper UK initiative is still in its early stages, and it remains to be seen whether the group can gain traction and offer a compelling vision for the future of the Conservative Party.

The takeaway

Prosper UK's launch highlights the challenges facing the Conservative Party as it seeks to redefine itself after a series of electoral setbacks. The group's reliance on 'former' Conservatives and its perceived nostalgic approach have raised questions about its ability to offer a fresh and relevant vision for the party's future.