The Scottish Parliament has just proved it is soft in the head. Again |
How refreshing it was to learn this week that Jack McConnell has been appointed advisor to the UK Government on soft power and major events. The former First Minister of Scotland, also known as the Baron McConnell of Glenscorrodale, was appointed to this sumptuous post by his old Labour pal, Lisa Nandy, the UK Culture Secretary.
Holyrood magazine reveals that the Baron will assist Sir Keir Starmer’s government in its mission to make Britain “the go-to destination for the world’s most prestigious sporting and cultural events”. A classical forerunner for this vital position existed in Roman times. The Emperor Caligula, a refined and enlightened visionary, created a similar role in his progressive Department of Panem et Circenses.
As one who has long embraced the contemplative and Spartan lifestyle, I’m probably not best placed to offer any advice to the Baron on how he should approach his new job. That said, I’d be spending the first year familiarising myself with the terrain he’s expected to negotiate. I’d start off with a couple of weeks at the World Cup, followed by Wimbledon fortnight and maybe the Munich beer festival before August in Edinburgh at their arts festival.
The appointment couldn’t have come at a better time for Britain. In recent years the UK has recorded a series of dismal failures at the Eurovision Song Contest, the world’s most potent symbol of soft power. It’s a long time since we reached the giddy heights of Save Your Kisses for Me. Perhaps Baron McConnell could help choose next year’s UK entry?
Jack McConnell has been appointed advisor to the UK Government on soft power and major events. (Image: Gordon Terris)
The news of Baron Jack’s posting comes at........