A signature (or fingerprint) issue bears a person’s unique stamp and can define their place in the history books.
George W Bush is associated with a number of very strong policies. Big tax cuts. Missile defence. Social security reform. But two policies - pre-emption and the faith-based dimension to compassionate conservatism - didn’t really feature until he became America’s 43rd President.
Council house sales were Margaret Thatcher’s signature issue although privatisation and the disastrous poll tax could also be pinned on one of her trademark blue suits.
The much-ridiculed Citizens’ Charter and cones hotline were two of John Major’s fingerprint issues.
The abolition of Labour’s pro-nationalisation Clause IV was the signature issue with which Tony Blair arrived on the political scene.
Michael Howard’s prison works soundbite and policy will always define his time as Home Secretary.
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