Jenni Murray on the Prime Ministers who left an impression

Smarmy, sweet, limp, shy and not to be trusted – our columnist’s thoughts on our past Prime Ministers and why Rishi Sunak won’t be getting her vote

Head and shoulders colour photo of Jenni Murray

Image credit: Mark Harrison

Saga Magazine columnist Jenni Murray has been covering general elections for the BBC since 1974, but strict rules on broadcaster impartiality meant she could never speak out.

But now she's left the public service broadcaster, she's used her column in our July edition to say what she really thinks about the Prime Minsters she's met over the years.

On meeting Margaret Thatcher during a crowded public event, she says: "She was overwhelmed by the crowd, keen to protect me and we chatted like two old friends. She was concerned about the impact her newfound fame would have on her children.

"We were never like that again. Future interviews on Woman’s Hour pre-elections were tough and nerve-wracking."

Then on the next prime ministers she is sharp and to the point.

"Tony Blair, I found smarmy; John Major sweet and good looking; David Cameron limp; Theresa May shy; and Boris Johnson way too fond of himself to be trusted with anything."

But looking ahead to July 4th, she also reveals that Rishi Sunak’s government will not be getting her vote.

"How could I vote for a party which, after 14 years in power, has left the country I love broken?"

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By Jenni Murray | Published - 22 Jun 2024

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