Westminster’s political sphere might seem monotonous with only work and no leisure, but the power bashes offer a much needed blend of both. Among these parties, the Spectator’s summer event is undoubtedly the most prestigious. This renowned party, held last week, is an integral part of Westminster’s social fabric and a legend in its own right.
Though the Spectator magazine maintains a largely Conservative stance, it avoids the common, crude party chatter that marks much of the UK’s newspaper landscape. It’s widely celebrated for its intellectual loftiness and admired political reportage. As such, its politically-themed events are significantly sought after by society’s elite and those who manage to secure an invite.
This year’s summer celebration was originally slotted for Wednesday, July 3rd. However, ex-prime minister Rishi Sunak’s sudden call for a snap election the next day led to a rescheduling. Consequently, the party moved to the subsequent Tuesday, staged in the garden behind the magazine’s building, conveniently located opposite the Houses of Parliament.
Coming only five days after a disastrous Tory defeat, one would anticipate the gathering, organised by a Tory-leaning magazine, to have a gloomy ambiance. However, it was quite the opposite. The interplay within the garden mirrored the political manoeuvres within Westminster, with newly-appointed Labour governmental heavyweights grabbing the spotlight, while hopeful Tory leaders vied for attention.
Champagne, acting as the party’s lifeblood, keeps the Spectator’s summer bash pulsating and vibrant. Famous for their endless servings of sparkling wine, guests indulged in freely flowing Pol Roger from the early hours. By the end of the soiree, it appeared as though everyone had been partaking from the champagne equivalent of the Magic Porridge Pot.
Former prime minister Liz Truss, despite her recent election loss and subsequent loss of her seat, still holds a high regard in Westminster’s circles. She was a noted guest at the Spectator’s party and it marked her first public appearance following her defeat to Labour in South West Norfolk.
Any new UK Prime Minister, particularly from the Conservative party, would habitually be expected to attend public events. However, Keir Starmer, the newly elected Labour leader, had to depart for a NATO meeting in Washington. This may have also worked in Starmer’s favour, since the working-class son of an artisan could avoid being pictured with an emblem of aristocracy, champagne, shortly after securing his victory in the elections by reaching out to working-class Britain.
Numerous cabinet officials, such as Bridget Phillipson, the Education Secretary, and Health Secretary Wes Streeting, were in attendance. The media coverage outside the event demonstrated a strong focus on the arriving Labour Party members, reminding all of the shifting political landscape.
Former Labour cabinet member and architect of New Labour’s image, Peter Mandelson, would undoubtedly have been bolstered by observing the unfolding power transition. High-profile Conservative candidates like Kemi Badenoch, Priti Patel, and James Cleverly sought to win over the audience. Nigel Farage of Reform UK, who played a notable role in the Tory’s defeat, preferred to hold his ground in the crowd, greeting a continuous line of people congratulating him on his election victory. Enjoying the outdoor event, Farage had the luxury of smoking, which seemingly added to his contentment.
No major gathering is satisfactory without a touch of stardom. Renowned media personalities such as Piers Morgan, Emily Maitlis, Jon Sopel, and challenging intellectual Jordan Peterson, who was spotted snapping pictures with his supporters, joined the crowd. Paul McGuinness, U2’s ex-manager, engaged in cordial chats on a bench tucked away at the garden’s end.
As the celebration went on, emotions ran high with the steady stream of champagne pouring. An erstwhile Tory cabinet member lost their footing on the stairs, causing a stir. As the event progressed, past and present MPs and their counterparts started to disperse, with a selected few staying behind for drinks in Fraser Nelson, the editor’s office.
Parliament is due for a break this month, and following its resumption, attention will shift towards party conferences happening nationwide. This year finds the Conservatives heading to Birmingham, while Labour sets its sights back on Liverpool.
Wherever the political carousel of Westminster rotates, so too is led the revelry of Westminster’s elite. The Tory conference’s chief satellite event is The Spectator’s champagne party, whereas the Labour conference usually plays host to the Daily Mirror’s equivalent gathering. Notably, The Spectator has expanded their festivities to the Labour assembly as well. When power shifts occur, the political figures are compelled to align.