Rehearsed Ignorance

The explanation for a politician's apparent evasiveness to answer a particular question lies possibly in the simple truth that they cannot. Literally. The rehearsed response is all that can be uttered and anything outside of this would need approval. In a 'live' situation this is obviously not possible.

To embark on actually verbalising an answer would just highlight the ignorance of a subject, especially when asked further questions. To tread the path of rehearsal stays within the boundary of the approved answer. Almost certainly not an individual sentiment, just the approved party line. The more able ones do appear to be more conversant with their subject and can easily disguise actual ignorance. It is clear when they are moving towards unknown ground and have limited answers. They will seek the refuge of repetition and answer only the question they wish they had been asked.

Or take an opportunity to utter a party line that is clearly out-of-context to the moment.

The status within the 'party' probably determines the evasiveness of answers or the ability to be honest. Yet others do not hesitate and speak from what is obviously a personal view. Occasionally, it appears that some individuals do show integrity, but this amounts to political suicide. It also shows courage to stand up for the individual's principles regardless of the consequences.

Devil's Advocate

Madness Of Nuclear Power

Watch for what is mentioned in the future regarding this subject. I predict almost nothing will be publicly debated as the outcome has already been 'settled'.

The fait accompli:

something that has happened and is unlikely to be reversed

Nuclear power it is and literally to

Hell

with us all.

Be careful to distinguish between what is wanted to be heard and what is needed to be heard.

Hazel Blears

Stays well inside the box. Trapped. Body language reveals much. The marvellous property of body language is that (unless extremely well groomed) the individual is totally unaware of it. Can change tune on the fly and then seems to be singing from a different hymn sheet.

David Cameron

Stays well inside the box - always. On the rise, but boxes have lids. Seems to understand body language and possibly exploits it. $lippery.

David Davis

Not constrained by boundaries

Graham Brady

Stepped outside the box, but demonstrates integrity

Sir Menzies Campbell

Stands for principles and integrity. Whatever the weight of policies and being a force in British politics, such a demonstration of values means a great deal.


Other 'politicians' seem not to know what principles actually are and switch ideas in a heartbeat.

Some of the many differences between different politicians, but be very aware and...

...always read the label