Polly Toynbee argues that Andy Burnham faces a public that is deeply pessimistic, distrustful of politicians and convinced that the social contract has failed. She says effective government must make people feel improvements in their lives, not merely deliver policies, and suggests that small gestures of goodwill from Downing Street could help begin rebuilding confidence.

The article cites Ipsos research showing trust in politicians has fallen from 33% in 1989 to 20%, while voters want both lower taxes and stronger public services. It describes conflicting attitudes: support for collective welfare has weakened, yet 57% favour a more socialist society; belief that talent overcomes background has fallen from 52% to 26%. Toynbee also highlights severe public pessimism, including 72% expecting a world war within 25 years.