The Rest Is Politics: Leading 78. David Blunkett: Education, policing immigration, and the future of the Labour Party (Part 2)
Jun 9, 2024
Former Home Secretary and Labour Party politician, David Blunkett, discusses challenges post-9/11, regrets on crime policies, and the future of the Labour Party. Topics include government reforms, collaboration in immigration, challenges as a blind individual in society, and impact of a blind political figure in global disorder.
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First Day in Cabinet
- David Blunkett recalls entering his first cabinet position as Education Secretary, feeling both excited and daunted.
- He humorously recounts asking for his secretary, only to be told by the entire department, "We're all your secretary."
Civil Service Resistance
- Civil service resistance to change stems from a deep internal culture.
- This culture often pre-agrees on advice, creating a unified, potentially limiting perspective for incoming ministers.
Overcoming Resistance
- Ministers should seek diverse advice to counter the civil service's tendency to present a single viewpoint.
- They must have a clear vision and be decisive, even if it means making difficult or potentially unpopular choices.