Anne Milton thinks that politicians should be over 45 when they enter politics.
“I think going into politics later in life is a good thing,” she told a nursing union conference.
As opposed to going in straight from university, wet behind the ears, knowing nothing of life and the outside world and with little insight into the effects their power games will have on those unfortunate enough not to be shielded by the anti-matter security screen that surrounds the Westminster village; which is what seems to be the norm these days. Hence a political class that is out of touch with commerce, industry and the plebeians.
“But if anybody’s got political aspirations can I recommend you wait till you’re over 45. You sort of know stuff when you’re over 45.”
Although, it has to be said of some that they go through life without learning anything, so nothing much would be gained in that instance. But generally, her point stands. Anyone entering politics in their middle age has had a career – and importantly – seen the effects of the legislation handed down by the denizens of Westminster. Hopefully, they would go into that place determined to do something about the poorly conceived, downright misanthropic binge legislating that goes on in that den of thieves. They would realise that day to day problems are not solved by yet more micro-managing, petty bureaucracy and interminable regulation – that we can pretty much muddle along without them. At present, these bastards aren’t on the receiving end and never feel (or have to pay for) the consequences of their folly, so continue to make the same mistakes hoping that it will all turn out right this time.
So, yes, she is right. I’d almost be inclined to add a decade to her figure, though. I’d add another condition, too; anyone who wants to be a politician is definitely not suited to the role and should be disbarred.
As one with a “Cameron Cutie” for an MP I would wholeheartedly agree!
I strongly agree also and would suggest other careers that should adopt a similar approach – social services for instance.
Problem with modern politics is that it’s becoming a kind of closed shop for that “intellectual elite” that we keep reading about. One certainly has needed to be well versed in the tedious language of law, but the biggest threat seems to be the rise of the PPE (philosophy, politics and economics) graduates, particularly from Oxbridge.
Both Cammers and Cleggy did PPE, along with Mayor Bozzer, Ed Balls-up and Mrs Balls-up. I’m sure there are plenty more – what’s certain is that there soon will be given the way politics seems to be going.
Intellectual elite? Like Jim Devine?
I thought the den of thieves comment had him covered 👿
I’ve said this for years. There needs to be a gap between university politics and national politics, a gap big enough that you have to go out there and have a proper career/life before you can consider clambering on the politics gravy train. I would say 35 for local government and 45 for national politics.
I have thought for a long time that anyone who seeks high office should automatically be barred from holding it.
Perhaps a further qualification should be added: ‘or aged twice the number of years they have been either employed or self-employed in the private sector’.
Yes, Chloe Smith is a case in point.
Cool. I’ve still got time.
“I’d add another condition, too; anyone who wants to be a politician is definitely not suited to the role and should be disbarred.”
You’re paraphrasing Heinlein, and I totally agree…
I too have thought that (at least prime ministers and other senior) politicians are best chosen from the older. However, I include another reason, in addition to the greater useful experience that grows with experience of life.
The time we are stuck with them is likely to be shorter than with the younger ones.
Best regards
Nigel, that thought went through my mind although I didn’t voice it.
Zorro, yeah, I know. I was also thinking of the Thin Blue Line when Inspector Fowler said something similar, but in respect of firearms licenses.
LR: See here. From 1:50 onwards.
That’s the one.
“anyone who wants to be a politician is definitely not suited to the role and should be disbarred.”
Forget Heinlein, Longrider has been spending some time in Kallipolis, eh?
😉