Game for a laugh
Thursday, March 29, 2007 
Last night I was a guest on 18 Doughty Street, the fledgling internet TV channel. This was my fourth appearance and - thank goodness - there was an item about smoking bans. On previous occasions I have been asked to discuss more than one subject I know little or nothing about. (Child benefit and tax relief for married couples comes to mind.) One of the weaknesses of Vox Politics, broadcast from 10.00pm, Monday-Friday, is that guests are booked sometimes weeks in advance. We are then asked to comment on the issues of the day, regardless of our 'expertise'. Last night, for example, Middle East politics raised its ugly head. Where was the informed academic when we needed him (or her!)? The End Of The Day show, which follows at 11.00pm, is even more relaxed. Take, for example, my appearance in January when THIS happened. Very unprofessional.
Reader Comments (4)
That is so funny,i thought you were going to need an inhalar. It must have been a fun night.
18 Doughty Street.com is now officially added to my favourites if not only to get more Simon!
Simon: watched your latest appearance on 18 Doughty Street (somewhat obliquely, via Phil Button's website). Don't know whether it's technologically possible to provide a direct link to the segment where you discuss the smoking ban, but would be great if you could. You made so many cogent and intelligent points about the issue – and greater issues involving the increasing encroachment of the state into people’s private lives – it would be brilliant if more people could see it.
Stephen Ladyboy, Minister for Thai Affairs! Absolute all time classic!!