Politics

Lucinda Creighton: With low expectations, Truss may work out all right as British PM

When your predecessor was a charlatan and you’re not rated highly, even the smallest achievements can be interpreted as wins. But the Tory Party leader faces enormous challenges, such as the spiralling cost of energy

New British prime minister Liz Truss: a significant improvement on Boris Johnson. Picture: PA

There is a great comfort in starting out in a new position with low expectations, especially if that position is prime minister. It is unlikely that you can disappoint too many, because so little is expected.

The smallest achievements can be interpreted as wins. Every day that is not a disaster, can be considered a small victory and will help to build a picture of some sort of momentum.

In addition, if your immediate predecessor ...