Beveridge’s Enduring Vision: What a New Film Reveals About Our Collective Failure

The recent film “The Man With the Plan” brings William Beveridge back into the spotlight, shedding light on the radical ideas of the Liberal peer who laid the foundations for Britain’s postwar welfare state. The new prime minister’s mission to reform the country makes it timely to revisit the principles enshrined in Beveridge’s report.

Beveridge’s plan was a bold attempt to address the fundamental problems plaguing Britain for decades, not just a response to World War II devastation. His 1942 report, “Social Insurance and Allied Services,” caused a sensation with over 650,000 copies sold on its first day. However, despite its significance, Beveridge’s ideas have been largely ignored by successive governments.

The film, directed by Christine Edzard, follows the story of Flea, a young student who confronts the “five giants” that Beveridge identified as obstacles to social progress: want, disease, squalor, idleness, and ignorance. Through encounters with politicians, landlords, journalists, and city traders, Flea faces entrenched interests hindering our progress towards a more equitable society.

The film depicts fierce opposition to Beveridge’s ideas, echoing the same tired arguments used to justify social inaction for generations. A mock choir sings about the alleged perils of a “living wage” and defense spending, mirroring the views of those who have consistently undermined social progress. However, the film also highlights the continued relevance of Beveridge’s vision, as embodied by Professor Michael Marmot’s powerful testimony.

Marmot’s words serve as a wake-up call to those claiming that Beveridge’s ideas are utopian and unachievable. As he says, “Not just possible today, but necessary, vital, today. We have to address the causes of the causes – and they reside in those five giants of Beveridge.” This is not a radical proposition; it’s a statement of fact.

The film also rebukes politicians who claim commitment to social justice while failing to deliver on their promises. Andy Burnham, mayor of Greater Manchester, should heed the lessons of history and warnings from those who have come before him. As Beveridge’s plan shows, creating a fundamental shift in societal values is crucial for implementing new policies.

The screening of “The Man With the Plan” in small venues across the country raises awareness but also demands action and commitment to addressing root causes of inequality. Watching this film forces us to confront our collective failure to implement Beveridge’s ideas, why we still haven’t addressed fundamental problems after 80 years, and what it will take to create a society where everyone has access to decent housing, healthcare, and education – not just as social justice but as a basic human right.

In the end, “The Man With the Plan” is a scathing critique of our own inaction. It’s a call to arms, urging us to rediscover the public good and confront entrenched interests that have held us back for so long. As we emerge from this pandemic, we have a unique opportunity to create a better society – one based on social justice, equality, and human rights. The question is: will we seize it?