The Conservative government works hard to give an impression of strength and determination: nothing we can say or do will stop it in its plans. And yet, over the last three years, there have been over 40 U-turns, of which the most notable were the ousting of Johnson and Truss, something that seemed impossible just 18 months ago. We can learn from that experience.

Given the enormous damage the government is doing to the UK, you may be wondering how we can stop them now.

The answer is surprisingly simple: write to your MP. Many people feel that writing to their MP is either daunting or pointless, but at a time like the present, neither is true:

  • When the government is secure, it is true, writing is both dispiriting and often ineffective, and even now you may well not get a satisfactory response — but that is not the point: the point is to rattle them;
  • When MPs fear for their personal prospects, writing is hugely effective – it is what finally did for Johnson and Truss;
  • Writing is surprisingly easy: it should only take you five minutes and the only thing you need to know is your own address.

Right now, Braverman is threatening some of these MPs’ seats. The polls are already sending a message, and if MPs get a large number of letters from constituents saying “we will never vote Conservative unless Braverman goes now” the message will be unmistakeable.

Do not be discouraged: remember that it was poor polling results and letters to MPs that got rid of Johnson and Truss.

Writing is surprisingly easy

And, for those who have never done it before, do not worry, these notes make it very quick and easy:

  • Introduce yourself as a constituent – and if you have never written before, say so: the fact that people other than ‘the usual suspects’ are writing to them concentrates an MP’s mind
  • be polite – don’t give them a reason to ignore the letter
  • Focus on a single issue – and no more than two or three key points about your concerns
  • Make it personal –eg. “I have seen the effects of racism …” and make it clear that you will never vote Conservative in the future if they do not act now, in the national interest
  • Be specific about the action you expect the MP to take – right now, we suggest: “Please now write to the Chairman of the 1922 Committee calling for a vote of no-confidence in the Prime Minister unless Braverman goes.”
  • Keep your letter short – just a few lines is ideal.

Actually writing to them is easy. This website will find all the details you need and even send your email for you: https://www.writetothem.com/ All you need to do is to prepare the text of your letter and paste it in.

Whether or not your MP is Conservative, you can write asking them to do all in their power to trigger a General Election, before the damage to the UK is too great.

And if you want any guidance, please contact Sophie on sophie.mcmanus@99-percent.org or Phil on phil.white@99-percent.org.