This powerful book analyses Britain’s struggles with racism, immigration policies and austerity, exposing how 14 years of Tory rule have deepened inequality and division.

With vivid examples, from the Windrush scandal and Grenfell tragedy to Islamophobia, Cole reveals how ‘hostile environment’ policies, the ‘age of austerity’ and brutal budget cuts have shaped lives and communities. Combining sharp analysis with historical context, the book uncovers how these issues are deeply tied to capitalism and class struggles.

In light of the rise of the far right in Britain, this crucial work offers both immediate solutions and a vision for systemic change, challenging us to imagine a fairer, more compassionate society grounded in justice and solidarity.

Mike Cole is Emeritus Professor of Racism Studies at the University of East London and Emeritus Professor of Education and Equality at Bishop Grosseteste University.

Introduction

Part 1: Conceptual and Theoretical Issues

1. The Multifaceted Nature of UK Racism

2. Austerity: A Flawed Economic Policy or a Deliberate Act of Capitalist Crisis Management and Class Warfare from Above?

Part 2: Racism and the Hostile Environment

3. Theresa May and the Hostile Environment: Preparation, Official Launch, and Enactment (2009-2019)

4. Boris Johnson and Priti Patel: Personal Rhetoric and Further Draconian Measures (2019-2022)

5. Suella Braverman, Hostile Rhetoric and the Escalation of the Hostile Environment (2022-2023)

Part 3: Austerity

6. David Cameron, the ‘Age of Austerity’ and Its Impact (2009-2019)

7. Boris Johnson’s COVID Economy, Liz Truss’s Mini Budget and Their Impacts (2019-2022)

8. Rishi Sunak’s Fiscal and Industrial Austerity: Cutting Social Expenditure and the War Against the Unions (2022-2023)

Conclusion: Hostility and Austerity as Interrelated Concepts: Some Examples and Some Solutions

Postscript: Election 2024: Labour Wins, Far-Right Riots and the Tories Elect a New Leader

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