David Skelton: From Gateshead to ‘Ghosthead’, how our towns have declined

The Conservative Party could become the natural home for the urban working class if it revived these towns, David Skelton argues in his new book.

David Skelton: We need a new generation of low-rent homes – and the Government can help to provide them

Polling by Shelter showed that such a scheme that tackled the housing crisis and gave the low-paid a helping hand on to the housing ladder would also be hugely popular.

David Skelton: How our new Prime Minister can reach out to the disengaged

Here are three areas where the next leader can fulfil a desire to have a country that works for everybody.

David Skelton and Paul Goldsmith: The North-East needs a directly-elected Mayor – or it will miss out on the Northern Powerhouse

It can no longer afford to be caught between the noise of Scottish nationalism to the North and a resurgent Leeds and Manchester to the South.

David Skelton: Raise a glass of ale today to England, Englishness – and St George

For me, the concept of the “freeborn Englishman” is fundamental. These liberties are expressed through Parliament and institutions.

David Skelton: Cameron is right to push for higher pay

“Conservatism at its best is both pro-business and pro-worker, both rewarding entrepreneurship and ensuring that work pays.”

David Skelton: The Conservatives are supporting the poorest after Labour’s years of negligence

More jobs, tax cuts, a higher minimum wage – we should be proud of all these measures and more.

David Skelton: If we Tories are the real workers’ party, we’ll cut taxes on bingo

Renewal is backing a campaign to reduce Labour’s disproportionate tax that is harming this crucial community facility.

David Skelton: To make the market work for everyone, we must confront vested interests

We should stand up aggressively for competition and against monopoly, and remedy market failure in housing, banking and the privatised utilities.

David Skelton: Reviving the Tory tradition of social reform

Modern centre-right politicians should focus on the cost of living, the housing crisis, worklessness, lack of educational attainment, poor quality childcare and welfare dependency.