At a time when politics in Britain is experiencing unprecedented turmoil, this Very Short Introduction examines the past, present, and possible future of British politics. Tony Wright puts current events into a longer and larger perspective, ranging from political ideas to political institutions, and offering an overview of the British political tradition.

The Britishness of British politics --The constitution : old and new -- Arguing : the politics of ideas -- Governing : still the strong centre? -- Representing : voters and parties -- Accounting : parliament and politicians -- Whither British politics?.