Why We Get the Wrong Politicians

Why We Get the Wrong Politicians

by IsabelHardman (Author)

Synopsis

Politicians are consistently voted the least trusted professional group by the UK public. They've recently become embroiled in scandals concerning sexual harassment and expenses. Every year, they introduce new legislation that doesn't do what it sets out to achieve - often with terrible financial and human costs. But, with some notable exceptions, they are decent, hard-working people, doing a hugely difficult and demanding job.

In this searching examination of our political class, award-winning journalist Isabel Hardman tries to square this circle. She lifts the lid on the strange world of Westminster and asks why we end up with representatives with whom we are so unhappy. Filled with forensic analysis and revealing reportage, this landmark and accessible book is a must read for anyone who wants to see a future with better government.

$4.24

Save:$19.50 (82%)

Quantity

2 in stock

More Information

Format: Hardcover
Pages: 336
Edition: Main
Publisher: Atlantic Books
Published: 06 Sep 2018

ISBN 10: 1782399739
ISBN 13: 9781782399735

Media Reviews
It's easy to moan that Westminster doesn't work and a lot harder to explain why. To understand, this is the book you need to read. * Laura Kuenssberg - Political Editor, BBC News *
An entertaining read that addresses hard questions... invaluable for those who think they know what's wrong with Westminster but have no idea how to put it right. * John Humphrys - Presenter, Today Programme *
Hardman's diagnosis of the malaise in the body politic is compelling and entertaining * Robert Peston - Political Editor, ITV News *
A fast-paced, intelligent dissection of modern politics, packed full of juicy anecdotes and insider knowledge. What Isabel Hardman doesn't know about parliament isn't worth knowing. * Helen Lewis - Deputy Editor, New Statesman *
The untold, candid account of our MPs. Isabel Hardman has been able to pierce our protective armour because we trust and respect her. And she's analysed what she found with a fierce intellect. * Harriet Harman MP *
This thoroughly readable and well-researched book explains why parliamentary powers won't ever be used properly until parties change how they choose their candidates. -- Lord Peter Mandelson
With humour and humanity, Isabel Hardman lifts the lid on the Houses of Parliament and shows with compelling authority how the structure and culture of our political system so often delivers the worst kind of results. This book has the power to fundamentally change how we do things in this country. * Emily Maitlis - Presenter, Newsnight *
This highly readable book serves as a reminder that the principal purpose of an MP is to be a legislator, yet poorly thought through laws are often passed. -- Jacob Rees-Mogg, MP for North East Somerset
Author Bio

Isabel Hardman is a journalist and broadcaster. She is Assistant Editor of The Spectator and presents Week in Westminster on BBC Radio 4. In 2015, she was named Journalist of the Year at the Political Studies Association's annual awards. She lives in London.

She frequently appears on television and radio, including Have I Got News For You, The News Quiz, Andrew Marr, Sunday Politics, Robert Peston, and more.