Friday 11th December 2009

In three weeks time we shall enter 2010, a brand new decade, so I thought it would be appropriate to reflect on the last ten years by picking out some of my favorites in journalism, politics, entertainment and sport from the 'noughties'.

Today I start with journalism and politics-

Politician of the decade – David Cameron
I thought I should get the most controversial category out the way first. As regular readers of my blog will know, I’m very sceptical of a Cameron led Conservative government after next year’s election, but given the state the Tory party were in ten years ago he has done well to make them electable. Since becoming leader of the opposition in 2005, I think Cameron has made genuine attempts to modernise the old fashioned, traditional party (though he could do himself a favour by breaking his alliance with George Osborne) and he has shown strong leadership, especially recently by taking a tough line on the expenses scandal. I’m sure my Labour supporting friends won’t like this, but I can’t think of any Labour politicians who have done consistently well in this decade, though I’m always open to suggestions.
Of course, as we move into the next decade, Cameron has some tough challenges ahead…

Journalist of the decade - Andrew Marr
Andrew Marr has been described as “the ideal history teacher that most people never had” and this is a true testament to his great books and television programmes. The two books I own by Marr, My Trade and A History of Modern Britain perfectly inform the reader on the ins and outs of journalism and the changing face Britain over the last 60 years respectively, using simple and understanding language. As for his television programmes, they give the viewer a colourful history of modern Britain by presenting information in a unique and interesting way. Andrew Marr has also been Political Editor of the BBC this decade and now has his own Sunday morning show. He has remained politically impartial at all times, something which other political commentators in the media should maybe take on board.

Journalism book of the decade – Piers Morgan – The Insider
Don’t get me wrong, I can’t stand Piers Morgan, as he is perhaps the most repulsive personality on television, but any budding journalist should read his diaries from his time as editor of the News of the World and the Mirror. Released in 2004, The Insider looks back on the scandalous period between 1994 and 2003, focusing on the key events of this time. The anecdotes give a brilliant insight into the murky world of tabloid journalism.

Political film of the decade – In The Loop
Afraid I’m going to have to be lazy and link to my blog entry from 24th August, read the second part of the entry. If you wish to know more about this excellent film then watch it, you won’t regret it.

Next week, my picks from the last ten years in entertainment.