The article reviews Jonathan Coe's latest novel, The Proof of My Innocence, which examines the transformation of British conservatism from the 1980s, culminating in recent political events like Brexit. Coe's story juxtaposes empathy for diverse social spheres with a critique of rising individualism and a decline in public virtue, particularly through a plot revealing threats to the NHS. As political tensions intensify, figures like Keir Starmer address these issues in the House of Commons, highlighting public suspicion of Reform UK’s healthcare proposals as the party seeks significant electoral gains in 2029.
Towards the end of the book, a twentysomething character offers her take on the disruptions that led to our present discontent: Britain changed.
Malign and greedy motives cloaked in false patriotism, driving an elite that is bent on misinforming and hoodwinking the less well off and the less well educated.
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