Speaking in Her Language: Cameron, Thatcher and Deficit Reduction under the Coalition Government, 2010–2015.

The article examines how David Cameron, during his leadership of the Conservative–Liberal Democrat Coalition Government (2010–2015), employed Thatcherite rhetoric selectively and strategically to address deficit reduction and maintain unity within the Conservative Party. Cameron invoked Margaret Thatcher’s legacy by framing deficit reduction as a necessary response to the economic “mess” left by the previous Labour government, emphasizing living within the nation’s means, adopting a resolute leadership style, and portraying Labour as fiscally irresponsible. This use of Thatcherite language served primarily to secure support from the Conservative right and reinforce the party’s reputation for economic competence, despite criticisms of austerity’s economic effectiveness and Cameron’s selective interpretation of Thatcher’s policies. The article also notes that after Cameron’s tenure, subsequent Conservative leaders shifted away from austerity, particularly in response to events such as Brexit and the COVID-19 pandemic.