UK A-Levels Politics Practice Exam

Orange book liberals are primarily associated with which political party?

1. Labour Party

2. Conservative Party

3. SNP

4. Liberal Democrats

The correct answer is: Liberal Democrats

The association of Orange Book liberals primarily lies with the Liberal Democrats. The "Orange Book" was published in 2004 and is a collection of essays written by members of the Liberal Democrats that outlines a liberal approach to politics, emphasizing individual liberty, personal responsibility, and a market-oriented economy. This publication marked a shift towards a more centrist and economically liberal ideology within the party, distinguishing this faction from other members who may lean more towards social democracy. The Orange Book itself reflects a divergence from traditional left-wing policies and seeks to align more with liberal economic principles, which has particularly influenced the direction of the Liberal Democrats in the years following its release. The prominence of figures such as David Laws and Nick Clegg, who championed these ideas, further solidifies the Orange Book's association with the Liberal Democrats rather than with any other political party, such as Labour, the Conservative Party, or the SNP which have distinct ideological foundations and policy priorities.