Tag Archives: Tony Blair

Does liberalism need to answer Tony Benn’s questions?

Posted on May 7, 2014 by lawrence serewicz

Many people were not fans of Tony Benn. They did not agree with his politics, or his political style. For some people, he was more in the mould of Michael Foot than John Smith or Tony Blair, which may have … Continue reading →

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A modest defense of democracy: three cheers for Blair, Cameron, and Clinton

Posted on June 18, 2012 by lawrence serewicz

I am not convinced that Leveson Inquiry shows a diminished democracy.  Instead, we have been treated to an eye opening view of how modern democracy works.  In the past, much of this would not be known or understood. Like the … Continue reading →

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Leveson: Blair provides a political master class

Posted on May 28, 2012 by lawrence serewicz

What was striking about Blair’s testimony before Leveson today was his ability to be friends with all parts of the media. In this role, he was showing his skill as a politician. In time, like any leader he will reach … Continue reading →

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Meeting Murdoch: Political Influence always has a purpose.

Posted on April 27, 2012 by lawrence serewicz

When the bailiffs come to your home, you know the reason, you do not have to ask. I have never met Rupert Murdoch nor am I likely to meet him.  If we were to meet, especially if he were to … Continue reading →

Posted in Government, statesmanship, transparency | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | 4 Comments

Empty Archives: hollow men and the fear of accountability?

Posted on April 23, 2012 by lawrence serewicz

In their recent visit to the Justice Select Committee Lord O’Donnell and Lord Hennessy talked about the possibility of “empty archives”.  Lord Hennessy mentioned that Cabinet minutes were not as explicit as they were in previous generation. He said that … Continue reading →

Posted in FOIA, Government, statesmanship, transparency | Tagged , , , , , | 1 Comment

Sir Ian Blair is no political philosopher: the myth of politicised policing.

Posted on March 8, 2012 by lawrence serewicz

There is a pernicious myth being propagated at the Leveson inquiry. The myth is that the police have only recently become politicised.  The truth is that the police have always been politicised to some extent. Sir Ian Blair attended the … Continue reading →

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