Chuka Umunna MP speaking at podium after joining Lib Dems

The transcript discusses the political landscape, focusing on the Liberal Democrats' role in the UK. It highlights the impact of public spending cuts initiated by the Conservative-Liberal Democrat coalition and the party's opposition to austerity measures since 2015. The speaker addresses policy changes, past mistakes, and the implications of Brexit on public services and austerity. The emphasis is on the need for a progressive liberal center ground and the challenges posed by Brexit to ending austerity.

What was a significant challenge for the speaker in joining the Liberal Democrats?

• The party's position on university tuition fees

• The lack of progressive policies

• The party's stance on Brexit

• The public spending cuts by the coalition government

What was the speaker's main disagreement with the fiscal policies during the coalition government?

• The reduction in public sector jobs

• The introduction of new taxes

• The speed and severity of fiscal consolidation

• The focus on tax increases

Which manifesto did the Liberal Democrats stand on in 2017?

• Pro-tax cuts manifesto

• Pro-austerity manifesto

• Anti-austerity manifesto

• Pro-Brexit manifesto

According to the speaker, what is the biggest impediment to ending austerity?

• Reducing public spending

• Pressing on with Brexit

• Increasing public sector jobs

• Increasing university tuition fees

What do both Labour and the Conservatives support that the speaker criticizes?

• Increasing public sector pay

• Facilitating Brexit

• Reducing housing benefits

• Increasing taxes for the NHS