Former British prime minister Boris Johnson said conservatives around the world can win elections by pointing out progressives want control.

However, Johnson said conservatives should emphasize they stand for freedom.

“I think it’s that Anglo-Saxon idea of freedom that unites conservatives or should unite conservatives,” said Johnson at a Wednesday panel at the Canada Strong and Free Network National Conference in Ottawa.

“When I look at some of the things we’re doing now or that have been done in the name of conservatives, you might think they’re absolutely nuts.”