I don't particularly see it as frightening and not unexpected. Birds of a feather...
Besides the British don't vote in our elections.
I don't consider the UK a nanny state, yes they are somewhat caught up in European Socialism. I lived there three years and except for some minor flaws like loving piss warm beer, they're very much like us. Underestimating the UK is like picking on the skinny kid who has a black belt. You're usually going to get a great big suprise.