NGMsGhost wrote on Jan 7
th, 2008 at 11:24pm:
I still think Politics with a large P also has its place in this campaign because the ability of Labour MPs to make a fuss is ultimately constrained by the fact that it is their government that set up and also always approves the final selection of the CEO of Ofcom.
Dead right. We have to apply an understanding of [big]P olitics if we are to pursue our [small] p olitical objectives with those who are engaged in it.
My approaches to Ben Bradshaw and Alan Johnson are different to the briefings I provide to Mike Penning, Andrew Lansley and Norman Lamb. Many briefings are provided to backbench MPs of all parties, such as those who have signed EDM108, who are able (and in some cases, keen) to show an independence of mind in support of their constituents.
In this forum however, I hope that all can exchange ideas and views that stand in isolation, without having to declare any broader interests or allegiances, or needing to demonstrate the same in-depth knowledge of topics shown by "full", or even more senior, members.
David