The Rest Is Politics 36. William Hague on Boris Johnson, Blair, and Brexit
Aug 3, 2022
Former British Foreign Secretary William Hague shares his insights on British politics, tackling the future of Boris Johnson and reflecting on his confrontations with Tony Blair. He discusses the nuances of Brexit and the challenges of leadership in its aftermath. Hague also touches on the importance of transformative education and the potential optimism in navigating political complexities. His rich experiences shed light on the shifting landscape of UK politics, offering a historical context to current challenges.
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Hague on PMQs
- William Hague felt PMQs were his only chance to be on equal terms with Tony Blair.
- Outside the Commons, he felt hopeless, but PMQs allowed him to raise morale.
Blair's PMQs Rituals
- Tony Blair took PMQs very seriously, with superstitions like wearing the same shoes.
- Blair's team considered Hague his best opponent, but found his humor disarming.
Shifting Importance of Speeches
- 19th-century politicians prioritized speeches, with Disraeli running government from the Commons.
- By 2010, MPs put less effort into speeches, often reading quickly and focusing on social media.