What does right wing mean?
Right wing describes political views that favour free markets, lower taxes, a smaller state and personal responsibility. Many on the right also value tradition, strong defence, law and order, and national identity. In the UK the centre right and the right include several parties and think tanks.
The right also covers a wide range of views. The centre right, often linked to conservatism, values stability, gradual change, business and strong institutions. Free-market liberals, sometimes called libertarians, want low taxes and minimal regulation. Others on the right put more focus on controlling immigration and protecting national sovereignty. The far right goes further, with extreme nationalism and hostility to minorities. Right-wing priorities in the UK often include cutting taxes, controlling spending, strong defence, and tough policies on crime and borders. Critics say right-wing policies can widen inequality and weaken public services. The term is used differently in different countries. Achievements often claimed by the right in Britain include Right to Buy for council tenants from 1980. Another is the sale of state firms in the 1980s. Supporters say these spread wealth and made industries more efficient.
Britain is split. Now you decide.
Play a right-leaning government in Population Decides and see whether tax cuts and a smaller state deliver growth.
Play Population Decides freeCommon questions
Which UK parties are right wing?
The Conservatives are usually described as centre right. Reform UK is generally placed further to the right.
What is the far right?
The far right is a fringe of extreme nationalism, often hostile to immigration and minorities, and sometimes to democracy itself.