PS What do you call a man who lives down a rabbit hole

Warren

I completely agree with you on the need for a new type of politics – and am rather despairing about what progress we can make when the party machines control so much of what happens at a national level. I am therefore concerned that the RSA can be used as a venue for policy presentation (in much the same way the press would turn up for speeches that Blair made in front of – but not actually to – primary school students). However, I do recognise the value for the RSA of being seen as a real contributor to national discussion, and that politicians can have interesting and valuable contributions to “our” discussions.

So, I do recognise that your last job can help us in this one, although it seems, at times, the media are only interested in your point of view for who you used to be.

[ It seems I've got more time than usual this afternoon. I'll disappear back into my rabbit hole shortly ]

Cheers,
Duncan.

The point I have been consistently trying to get across is the need for a new type of politics – focused on the big issues we face not the machinations of the Westminster village. This is something I have argued often on RSA platforms. So I am not saying anything that I haven’t said before and that doesn’t chime with RSA valuea; i.e. the important of grown up substantive debate. I always try to get broadcasters to use my current status rather than past one but I dont always succeed. My media profile does generate useful contacts and opportunities for the RSA. Having said all of which, I know it is a difficult balancing act and i am always grateful to be told when people think I am getting it wrong

Have a good weekend

Matthew

That seems to me to conflict with the non-aligned position which I think the RSA needs to be effective.