F
ew things affected Alan Clark as much as retirement. In his diaries, the former Thatcher-era Tory junior minister expressed his hunger for news and gossip, along with his resentment towards John Major. Despite this, he acknowledged that the cruelty of politics is what makes it attractive.
If Clark were alive today, he would undoubtedly host his own politics podcast. It would feature reminiscences, gossip, and sharp political commentary sponsored by a probiotic yogurt manufacturer. Podcasts have become a thriving cottage industry in SW1, providing employment for ex-ministers and advisers-turned-hosts. Notable examples include Alastair Campbell’s “The Rest is Politics” with Rory Stewart, which has gained popularity and even tours theaters. George Osborne and Ed Balls are also set to launch an economics-focused podcast.
A common format is emerging in the podcasting industry. It typically involves two prominent figures, often men, who discuss current events while sharing behind-the-scenes insights. These podcasts are both informative and accessible, attracting a younger, educated, and affluent audience, as highlighted by a recent report from the Reuters Institute.
The key to the format’s success lies in featuring politically influential individuals from slightly opposing views. They must strike a balance between disagreement and pleasant conversation. George Osborne recently referred to Ed Balls as a former “bitter foe” turned “firm friend.”
However, the focus of these podcasts rarely extends to individuals directly impacted by political decisions. Vulnerable citizens like Paul and Lisa Chapman are left unheard. The Chapmans, who suffered from the consequences of austerity measures, had their benefits unjustly taken away. Their heartbreaking story, which exemplifies the brokenness of British politics, is seldom addressed by prominent figures like George Osborne and Ed Balls.
Entertainment-centric shows have a remarkable ability to reshape public perception of politicians. Boris Johnson, for instance, transformed from a notorious liar to someone people would enjoy having a pint with through TV quiz shows. Similarly, Ed Balls transitioned from an economist to a household name through cooking and dancing shows. The illusion is that these figures have shed their political personas and become relatable individuals living ordinary lives. However, the reality often differs, as exemplified by Alastair Campbell’s continued involvement in election campaigns and George Osborne’s collaboration with Matt Hancock during his editorship at the London Evening Standard.
The current podcast boom, fueled by venture capital, offers a platform for middle-aged politicians to reclaim their reputations. George Osborne, who appears more personable than David Cameron, may find greater public acceptance through this medium.
However, the desire to truly listen to voters and address their concerns, which emerged after the Brexit vote and during the Corbyn and Johnson eras, has waned. Room-temperature liberalism, characterized by agreeable conformity and deliberate ignorance of unpleasant facts, has taken its place. Yet, the individuals negatively impacted by political decisions remain present and face dire circumstances.
The story of the Chapmans serves as a stark reminder of the cruelty of politics. They are left struggling to meet rising costs while dealing with the debilitating effects of Paul’s Parkinson’s disease. Their benefits are inadequate, and they have resorted to selling their possessions and plan to sell their home. Instead of being recognized, they are at the bottom of the societal hierarchy.
It is clear that these individuals, like the Chapmans, deserve a voice in the podcasting landscape.
Denial of responsibility! VigourTimes is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
