Iain Duncan Smith Accused of Failing the Poor

The transcript discusses the Easterhouse Epiphany, where Bob Holman showed Iain Duncan Smith, then leader of the Conservative Party, around one of the UK's most deprived areas. Initially, Smith aimed to make the Conservatives the party of the poor, but welfare cuts have since shifted the narrative. Scott Robertson, a local, shares firsthand experiences of poverty in Easterhouse. Bob Holman calls for Smith's resignation if no changes occur within the Conservative coalition. The Department of Work and Pensions defends welfare reforms, while critics argue for wealth redistribution.

What was the purpose of Iain Duncan Smith's visit to Easterhouse in 2002?

• To campaign for local elections

• To launch a new business initiative

• To understand poverty and shift Conservative focus

• To promote a new housing project

What challenge did the Conservative Party face in achieving their goal of helping the poor?

• Opposition from other political parties

• Cuts in the welfare budget

• Insufficient media coverage

• Lack of public support

What criticism is mentioned regarding the Conservative Party's approach to poverty?

• They are not investing enough in education

• They are blaming the poor for their own poverty

• They are ignoring environmental issues

• They are focusing too much on urban areas

What is one of the aims of the welfare reforms discussed in the video?

• To increase taxes on the wealthy

• To make work pay and lift people out of poverty

• To reduce immigration

• To cut healthcare costs

What solution is proposed to address the wealth disparity in Britain?

• Increase foreign aid

• Redistribute wealth from the top 10%

• Promote more small businesses

• Invest in technology