Best of the Spectator Quite right!: Blair's ID card dystopia & the 'hell' of conference season
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Sep 23, 2025 Dive into the wild world of party conference season, where the pressure can feel like PTSD for politicians. Explore the contentious debate over digital ID cards—are they a smart solution or just 'snake oil'? Discover Keir Starmer’s controversial recognition of a Palestinian state and its political implications. Lastly, witness the profound radicalism of Christian forgiveness through Erika Kirk's extraordinary act of mercy towards her husband's alleged murderer, challenging the age of vengeance.
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Conferences Felt Like Public Examinations
- Michael Gove describes party conferences as an ordeal that caused him near-physical illness and long-lasting PTSD.
- He recalls the pressure of examination-like speeches and constant public exposure that made conferences terrifying.
Image Policing At Conferences
- Michael Gove recounts strict image rules, like avoiding disposable cups and champagne photos at conferences.
- He tells stories of David Cameron forbidding photographed drinking and being careful after Miliband's banana incident.
Protecting Colleagues On Stage
- Michael Gove recalls Theresa May's collapsed-speech moment and how colleagues were forced to publicly praise her.
- He admitted he said it was brilliant to avoid piling agony onto an already distressed colleague.