đ Date: Tuesday, 27 September 2022
âł Time: 12:30
đLocation: Lower Galleria Room 1, ACC Liverpool, Kings Dock Street, Liverpool, England, L3 4FP
SME4Labour  Fringe: In conversation with Iain Dale
Chris Bryant interviewed Iain Dale and Iain Dale interviewed Chris Bryant about their respective careers, the present situation and what the future holds.
Iain opened by noting that he had turned 60 this year, an age that he had once considered old. He observed that it felt different to turning 50 and felt like a turning point for him. Chris countered that Iain did not show any signs of slowing down with his schedule of blogging, writing and speaking.
When discussing the train-strikes Chris observed Iainâs more-than-passing resemblance to Mick Lynch the RMT Head. Iain agreed, relating that he had been mistaken for Mick Lynch the week before.
Chris reflected on the fact the country needs to learn a new national anthem, recalling a conversation he had with the Archbishop of Canterbury earlier who had not yet mastered saying âKingâ instead of âQueenâ and so often the phrase came out âGod save our Quizling,â a far from ideal situation.
Iain discussed his new book âOn this day in Politicsâ, which describes little known political facts. For example Iain had learned in the course of researching his book that the first non-white MP had not been elected in 1987 as most would assume, but rather in 1832 â John Stewart who was himself a former slaver.
Chris observed the disparity between the way the press presents certain figures and their private personalities, citing Cherie Blair as an example of a disconnect. Iain agreed that this often happened, noting that Theresa May whilst often officious would also often relax and let lose and had a sense of humour.
Iain observed the inherent tribalism of politics, saying that despite not being a Tory member for 12 years he was often identified with the party. This tribalism has been increased by the current political situation, though Trussâs actions have made this harder.
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