I've just finished reading Tony Blair's memoirs in "A Journey". I've never read any political memoirs before. I'm not a particular fan of Blair, but thought that his book would be interesting. I was right - it is.
It outlines his thoughts and reasoning on decisions and events throughout his time as prime minister, as well as before and after, but it avoids the boredom that we might have got from chronological list (i.e. diary). Of course, as we are enticed as a reader, it is very easy to agree with much of his thinking about New Labour and the policies it pursued over 10 years of his tenure (as well as the build-up to power prior to 1997).
He knew his old mate, but latterly not so chummy, Gordon Brown would not pursue the New Labour path, and would end up in failure (mind you, hindsight is, of course, a wonderful thing).
Blair's thoughts on the media are cystal clear: he thinks they have way too much influence without accountability on politics (on everything really), and if they're out to "get you", then they will stop at nothing until they do.
It's a fascinating insight into Blair's years as premier, and I would recommend it - especially as the proceeds are going to the Royal British Legion (so you don't have to wrestle with a conscience that doesn't want you to line Blair's pockets!).
I also get the feeling we may not have heard the last of Mr Blair. He feels he has unfinished business.
No comments:
Post a Comment