Thoughts from Lickey End

Peace and goodwill, even to politicians

I tuned into BBC Parliament for Prime Minister's Questions today (Weds 22nd December) but was disappointed. I was looking forward to some sharp exchanges about the two inquiries into David Blunkett but I'd forgotten that the Commons broke up (or "rose") for Christmas the previous day.

I suppose you could argue that it was pretty handy timing, and mutter darkly that the government had "got at" Budd and Mawer, but you could also take the view that even politicians need a break from the relentless sniping and antagonism that characterises modern politics.

I sometimes wonder why anyone would ever want to be an MP these days. I certainly wouldn't. But looking at the MPs who have taken their seats in the last few years, you could hazard a guess that it's not because they have strong convictions and dynamic ideas for reshaping society. Most seem pretty vacuous in this area, quite incapable of expressing their opinions clearly, and unable to speak out when their conscience is at odds with the party line. It would seem that "being an MP" is itself the real desire, with the status and financial rewards that it brings. The daily task therefore is to do whatever is necessary to keep the position. It is a purely defensive role. If it requires the MP to vote against his or her conscience, to utter simpering support, or simply to keep silent, then so be it. If you find yourself on a committee, your conclusions must be favourable to your party, never mind the rights and wrongs of the issues under consideration. Protect the party and protect your seat, whatever the cost.

One result of all this is that political battles are now fought not on issues, but on personalities, and the bigger the personality, the better. Does anyone really care what some unknown junior minister gets up to? Not at all. But if it's a political "heavyweight" such as David Blunkett, then clear the decks and man the guns, a battle is looming.

The battles, though, are still not fought in the House. They are fought in the newspapers, with ever more salacious releases of gossip and tittle tattle. If you can't win the argument, win their sympathy. So, with David Blunkett, we know he did wrong, but he cares for his children and has a nice dog, so dishonesty and adultery don't really matter, he's a nice guy.

However, it is the season of goodwill, so enjoy a rest all you politicians. And think about what you've done to politics...

posted by Neil @ 5:37 PM