Lecture by Lord Fox at Christ’s Hospital

Lord Fox is group corporate relations director of GKN and was formerly Chief Executive of the Liberal Democrats. In the latter capacity he had a key role in shaping the current coalition government after the last election. His lecture provided first hand insight into the reality of modern politics, legislation and campaigning.

Lord Fox was careful not to issue a “party political broadcast”, but rather concentrated on the reasons why British politics is structured as it is. One key message was the need to differentiate between the positions of “purity of policy” against pragmatic realism. These insights came as some surprise to the audience, both adults and pupils. With many first time voters among the audience and the imminence of the forthcoming general election this was a timely and inspirational evening bringing young voters a real sense of their importance in our democracy.

A lively question and answer session ensued with the pupils being able to interrogate a real live politician. The issues of tuitions fees, coalitions the advantages and pitfalls of the growing relevance of internet based politics together with the influence of social media were both revealing and thought-provoking.

Report contributed by Christ’s Hospital. Pictures by Toby Phillips.