Book Review: Ten Years to Save the West by Liz Truss

In Ten Years to Save the West, former UK Prime Minister Liz Truss embarks on a journey that blends political memoir with a manifesto for the future of Western democracies. The book, published in April 2024, explores Truss’s vision of conservatism, critiques the so-called “liberal blob” she perceives to have taken over government institutions, and proposes that conservatives need to reclaim their ideological ground if they are to save the West from socialism, big government, and an encroaching “administrative state.” The title itself sets the stage for a grand, urgent mission.

Overview of the Book

The Argument

Truss argues that the West is at a crossroads, facing existential threats from socialism and the expanding “administrative state,” with conservatives too often capitulating to leftist agendas. Drawing inspiration from Ronald Reagan and Margaret Thatcher, she advocates for a return to free markets, smaller government, and a reassertion of individual liberties. The book promises to offer “urgent, detailed, and full of insights gleaned from the highest levels of politics,” aiming to awaken conservatives to the clear and present dangers posed by the political left (Regnery Publishing).

Structure and Themes

The book can be divided into two main parts: a retrospective critique of her time in government and an exploration of the challenges facing conservatives today.

1. Memoir Sections: Truss recounts her journey through government, from her time as a junior minister to her brief premiership. She paints herself as an outsider, often “the only conservative in the room,” and decries the bureaucratic obstacles that stymied her reformist agenda. Her descriptions of events are often colored by a sense of victimhood, particularly concerning her rapid downfall as Prime Minister.
2. Ideological Sections: Here, Truss positions herself as a torchbearer for conservatism, urging her fellow conservatives to reclaim their principles. She condemns the “liberal blob” that she perceives as pervasive in government, blames the administrative state for obstructing reforms, and calls for a tougher stance against China and global socialism (Regnery Publishing). She also argues that social liberalism is incompatible with fiscal conservatism, seeing herself as a defender of true conservative values (Iain Dale).

Reception and Critique

Praise

Some conservative commentators have praised the book for its unapologetic stance. Iain Dale, a prominent broadcaster and publisher, noted that while Truss tends to overstate her argument, she does raise valid concerns about the erosion of conservative principles in government. Dale acknowledged that Truss’s critique of the civil service’s reluctance to embrace change has “a modicum of truth” (Iain Dale).

Criticism

However, the book has received a largely critical reception, often described as “unintentionally hilarious” and characterized by self-pity and lack of self-awareness (Andrew Rawnsley). Critics have pointed out:

1. Self-Pity and Lack of Accountability: Many reviewers noted that Truss portrays herself as a victim of an anti-democratic cabal while failing to reflect on her own role in her government’s collapse. Tom Peck, writing for The Independent, likened her memoir to “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland,” where Truss resides in a world of make-believe and takes no responsibility for the economic chaos caused by her policies (The Independent).
2. Unconvincing Arguments: The book’s credibility suffers from sweeping claims and a tendency to overstate issues. Truss blames the administrative state for thwarting her reforms but doesn’t adequately explain why she couldn’t navigate these challenges during her time in power. Her zealotry is described as “unsuited to, and unworthy of, office” (The Independent).
3. Ideological Rigidity: Some reviewers, including David Gauke, criticized Truss for her unwavering ideological stance, which often simplifies complex political realities and fails to resonate with a broader audience (Wikipedia).

Highlights and Revelations

Despite the criticism, the book provides intriguing insights into Truss’s worldview:

• Lessons from Her Premiership: Truss recounts key moments, including her reaction to the Queen’s death and her resignation speech outside 10 Downing Street. Her resignation is described as a “dramatic moment in a very strange film,” highlighting her bewilderment at her rapid fall from grace (The Independent).
• Foreign Policy and China: Truss warns of the threat posed by an “aggressive China” and advocates for a tougher approach to defend Western democracies.
• Conservative Revival: The book is peppered with calls for conservatives to articulate a clearer vision for capitalism and free markets, urging them to reject compromises with leftist agendas (Iain Dale).

Ten Years to Save the West is, without a doubt, a polarizing book. While Truss’s vision for the future of conservatism has found support among some right-leaning commentators, the book is often criticized for its self-serving narrative and lack of self-reflection. Nevertheless, it offers a unique window into the mind of one of Britain’s shortest-serving Prime Ministers and her diagnosis of the West’s challenges. Whether one agrees with her or not, the book is certainly an exercise in political pathology worth exploring.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the main argument of Ten Years to Save the West?

The book argues that the West faces existential threats from socialism, the administrative state, and globalism. Truss calls for a revival of conservative values centered on free markets, smaller government, and individual liberty.

How does Liz Truss address her short tenure as Prime Minister?

Truss portrays her tenure as a victim of bureaucratic resistance and a globalist conspiracy against her reforms. Critics, however, note her lack of self-reflection and responsibility for the chaos that ensued after her unfunded tax cuts (The Independent).

Who is the book’s target audience?

The book primarily targets conservatives disillusioned with current politics and seeking a clear conservative roadmap. It also appeals to political enthusiasts interested in understanding Truss’s perspective on her brief premiership.

How has the book been received?

Ten Years to Save the West has been met with mixed reviews. While some conservative commentators praise Truss’s unapologetic stance, most reviewers criticize her self-pity, lack of accountability, and oversimplified arguments (Andrew Rawnsley, The Independent).

What are the key lessons from the book?

• Conservatives should reclaim their ideological ground and resist leftist agendas.
• The administrative state is a significant barrier to conservative reforms.
• An aggressive China and globalism pose threats to Western democracies.

Conclusion: A Polemic Worth Reading?

Despite the critical reception, Ten Years to Save the West is an intriguing read for anyone interested in contemporary politics. While Truss’s vision may not resonate with everyone, her book sparks debates about conservatism, governance, and the future of Western democracies. If you’re up for a thought-provoking, if sometimes unintentional, adventure into Truss’s political wonderland, this book might be worth your time.

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