Why do some prime ministers manage to get things done, while others miserably fail? What is a ‘special adviser’ and how did they take over British political life? And why is the House of Lords more functional than most people think?
Most of us have a sense that our political system doesn’t seem to work, but struggle to articulate exactly why. And for good reason: our political and financial institutions are cloaked in secrecy, archaic terminology, ancient custom and impenetrable jargon.
Now, expert political journalist lan Dunt is lifting the lid on British politics to expose every aspect of the setup in a way that can be understood and challenged. From Downing Street to Whitehall, the Commons to the Lords – and based on his latest book – this talk is an indispensable overview of our political system – and how we might begin to fix it.
Brief Bio
Ian Dunt is a British author, political journalist, author, and broadcaster. He is the Editor of Politics.co.uk and a host on the Oh God, What Now? podcast.
Ian specialises in immigration, civil liberties, democracy, free speech and social justice and appears regularly on the BBC, Sky, and Al-Jazeera as well as a variety of radio stations. He also writes lifestyle columns for other publications and websites.
After acquiring a Bachelor’s degree in Philosophy and a Master’s in International Relations, Dunt studied for his Diploma in Journalism and Media Law at the London School of Journalism. Beginning his career at PinkNews, he then became a political analyst for Yahoo! and political editor of Erotic Review, before taking the reins as editor at politics.co.uk in 2010.
A vocal critic of Britain’s withdrawal from the European Union, Dunt penned Brexit: What the Hell Happens Now? in 2016 and started the Remainiacs podcast alongside other pro-Remain commentators the following year.
Standard Stuff
Talks are usually on the 4th Wednesday of every month, at 7:00 for 7:30, at The Winchester Club in Winchester. Please take a look at the FAQs for more info.
Admission is £5 which also gives you an entry in the book raffle. We take cash and major cards (cards preferred).
The event is in two parts – the talk and then a Q&A after the interval. We encourage you to support the venue by indulging in the available drinks before and during the event.
You are also welcome to join us for a drink in the bar after the event.