In this IEA Book Club event, Sir Vernon Bogdanor discusses his new book "Making The Weather: Six Politicians Who Changed Modern Britain" with IEA Executive Director Tom Clougherty. Bogdanor examines how certain politicians have shaped Britain's political landscape, focusing particularly on three figures: Aneurin Bevan, Enoch Powell, and Keith Joseph.
The discussion explores how these individuals challenged the prevailing consensus of their times and influenced British politics far beyond their immediate careers. The conversation delves into Bevan's creation of the NHS and its lasting impact, Powell's complex political positions beyond his controversial immigration speech, and Keith Joseph's role in developing what would become known as Thatcherite economics. Bogdanor brings fresh insights to these familiar figures, drawing on personal interviews and historical research to paint a fuller picture of their motivations and achievements.
Throughout the discussion, Bogdanor and Clougherty explore parallels between these historical figures and contemporary British politics, including Brexit, the future of the Conservative Party, and the challenges of political communication in modern Britain. The event concludes with Bogdanor's thoughts on whether the Thatcher era is coming to an end and what might replace it.
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