The politician Tony Benn has passed away. I didn’t know much about him but two things online today make me wish I had known more about the man. First is his appearance on Ali G where he really dealt with Ali’s antics with a beautiful no nonsense style. Look at the way he uses his hands and the conviction of his ideas! It’s not about soundbites, witty banter and snappy comebacks.
Then I read Tony Benn’s five questions – and surveillance where Paul Bernal writes about Benn’s questions of legitimacy and power.
- What power have you got?
- Where did you get it from?
- In whose interests do you exercise it?
- To whom are you accountable?
- How do we get rid of you?
Brilliant questions – Fascinating man. Unfortunately we don’t see many politicians with this kind of mindset.