According to BBCi Lord Howe of Aberavon, Margaret Thatcher's first Chancellor, warns David Cameron to reflect on William Hague's experience before standing for the Tory leadership: "William Hague, whose first job was as my political adviser was deeply unwise to become leader when he did." This advice for 'DC to wait' echoes that from Labour sources reported in this blog's post of Monday.
Lord Howe does not endorse any candidate but makes some comments about David Davis. He questions David Davis' speaking skills and his thoughtfulness but believes that David Davis is a "seriously minded man" with experience of work outside of politics.
MPs' limited experience of real life is of serious concern to Lord Howe: "There are now hardly any real people in the House of Commons. I've always said people before they become a candidate for a safe seat they should establish an independent existence in a different role."
He regrets that there are so few MPs with experience of industry, medicine and other professions. He concludes: ""It's one of the reasons why people's confidence in the electoral system has declined so much. They have all become shadowy political creatures."
I completely agree with Howe's point that we need politicians with experience of the world.
But as a failed leadership contender himself, I'm not sure he should be criticising candidates on the basis of their oratorical skills.
Posted by: Wat Tyler | 10 August 2005 at 19:17
Why not, Wat? You don't have to be good at something yourself to judge how someone else performs.
Anyway, one of the areas where he made good sense was in bemoaning our failure to make use of the former ministers that people still recognise. What he failed to say is that somne are still in the Commons. The likes of Stephen Dorrell and Peter Lilley could still make a contribution to the front bench, in my opinion. We don't necessarily just need young cardinals.
Posted by: James Hellyer | 10 August 2005 at 20:12
Bring back Peter Lilley. He has been an effective and consistent opponent if ID cards - unlike a certain individuals on the frontbench.
I cannot think, however, think of a single vital policy contribution from Stephen Dorrell.
As for William Hague, he is more popular with the public and would a popular choice as leader. Why is he ruled himself out - has he lost his hunger for politics or making too much money in the private sector?
Posted by: Selsdon Man | 12 August 2005 at 09:44
"I cannot think, however, think of a single vital policy contribution from Stephen Dorrell."
He was an effective Health Secretary in his day.
Posted by: James Hellyer | 12 August 2005 at 09:49
Does anyone know how I can formally get in contact with Geoffrey Howe to interview him? Does he have a representative/ spokesperson that I could speak to etc? If anyone knows please do help me or send me an email.
Thank you.
Posted by: Maria A | 09 January 2006 at 14:59