Question Time behind the scenes

[trubble]

A light hearted article by the departing editor.

Question Time: Sitting uncomfortably? Then we'll begin...

Once the programme is over, the off-the-record banter begins. Some guests go hell for leather. Charlie Falconer, the former Lord Chancellor, and Tory education spokesman Michael Gove once gave a masterclass in how to dissect an opponent’s argument with forensic logic.

Others are priceless; comedian Frank Skinner kept a restless audience entertained when one of his fellow guests was late – and then did the same with the panel afterwards. And some can’t escape the day job: Justin King, the chief executive of Sainsbury’s, was told at length what the panellists thought of his cheese range.

The author touches on the Tango story and what you should do if you see Dimbleby on a train platform. So do DO that.

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[housesparrow]

I once went to an Any Questions session and there was none of those going on! All.....
well, not formal, but very Radio 4!

[Patrick]

That’s the great thing about Question Time. Week after week in a different location around the UK, 150 people get to come along, stick their hand in the air and hold politicians to account. David Dimbleby chairs the debate, but there is no intermediary beyond that. In an era of slick media management and carefully honed presentation skills, it is arguably the most challenging arena for a professional politician.

"Any Questions" by contrast to what that sounds like is pretty well stage managed. Friend of mine went - you submit your questions beforehand and woe betide you if you change your mind - or deliberately set a mundane question then when your turn comes ask what's really on your mine as she did. All hell breaks loose.

[housesparrow]

that sounds exciting! Tell us more.

[Flatypus]

I don't like the thought of submitting questions in advance. It makes the idea that the team have no warning rather suspect.

Why did I get a Flash of some ghastly git jollifying that the temperature in June and July might actually think about touching hot but turn back in fear of transgressing 30° ?