Michael Gove might seem an unlikely role model for Labour, but his influence on the party’s strategy in government is undeniable. Despite being vilified by Labour during his tenure as education secretary, Gove’s swift and decisive reforms have proven to be a model of effective governance. Labour, while ideologically opposed to Gove on many fronts, has taken lessons from his ability to push through transformative policies at a fast pace. His handling of education reforms, introduced shortly after the Conservatives came to power in 2010, has particularly resonated with Labour strategists who seek to make their mark early in their time in office.

At an event hosted by the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) last night, titled “Insurgent government: how to combat rising populism?”, Gove provided his thoughts on Labour’s opening months in office. The gathering, held at the Conduit in central London, gave the former minister a platform to reflect on the challenges of implementing reforms and combating populist sentiment, while offering a glimpse into how Labour’s leadership might navigate the turbulent waters ahead.

Labour’s embrace of Gove’s approach is rooted in the desire for rapid and effective change. After years of opposition, the party is keen to demonstrate to voters that it can deliver on its promises. This means acting decisively on issues like the NHS, housing, and the cost-of-living crisis. Gove’s example, as discussed by the IPPR’s Harry Quilter-Pinner in his recent analysis on how to “govern like Gove,” provides a roadmap for Labour leaders looking to make a significant impact within a limited window of opportunity.

Gove’s reforms in education, for example, were met with fierce opposition at the time, but they have largely endured. This resilience is something Labour is keen to replicate, ensuring that the policies it introduces have a lasting legacy even in the face of inevitable pushback. In this respect, Labour’s leadership sees Gove not as an adversary, but as a case study in how to enact sweeping reforms that stick.

However, Labour faces its own unique set of challenges, particularly when it comes to balancing bold policy initiatives with public expectations. While Gove could rely on the backing of a Conservative majority during his time in office, Labour may not enjoy the same level of parliamentary support or public goodwill. Additionally, the current political landscape is marked by rising populism and a fragmented electorate, making the task of governing all the more complex.

At the IPPR event, Gove spoke to the necessity of confronting populism head-on, a challenge Labour will need to grapple with as it seeks to implement its agenda. His remarks suggested that bold leadership and the willingness to make tough, sometimes unpopular, decisions are critical to success. For Labour, this means taking calculated risks, whether in economic policy, healthcare, or education, to secure long-term gains.

In its early months in power, Labour has shown a willingness to follow Gove’s lead in terms of speed and decisiveness. Yet, as Gove’s own experience illustrates, the true test lies not just in passing reforms, but in ensuring they endure amidst political opposition and shifting public sentiment.