Andy Burnham has suffered a fate that few if any politicians survive, after his phone alert telling people not to use barbecues was met with widespread ridicule. According to Virginia Blackburn, while politicians can survive being hated, once they are laughed at, they are a goner.
Ridicule over barbecue alert
The move by Burnham was met with widespread ridicule, with Blackburn noting that there is a moment in every premiership when the wheels come off. Some think it happened to Keir Starmer when the increase in National Insurance was announced, making it more expensive to employ people. Burnham's alert has now drawn similar attention.
Other news and commentary
In other items, Blackburn reports on tensions between Paul Hollywood and new judge Nigella Lawson on The Great British Bake Off, with a picture suggesting body language between Alison Hammond and Lawson speaks volumes, as Nigella looks terrified.
Ricky Gervais has said he is to marry his long-term partner Jane Fallon after 44 years together, doing so to avoid inheritance tax. Blackburn notes that marriage is the foundation of a stable society, and Gervais' stance on animal rights already makes him a hero.
Hayden Panettiere, who first appeared on screen at 11 months old, has joined the ranks of child stars who never escaped the troubles early fame brings. Blackburn notes that the only people she can think of who escaped the curse are Jodie Foster and Shirley Temple.
Prince Harry has indicated he will visit Britain more often following the success of his recent meeting with his father. Blackburn describes him as a sulky, petulant prince dragging his grievances across the Atlantic.
A new study suggests shared taste in music is key to compatibility in couples, but Blackburn argues it is having the same sense of humour that is really important, citing the King and Queen who laugh at the same things.
Blackburn, a self-described tribal Tory, notes that Reform are coming up with good ideas, including getting the unemployed to carry out work for the local council or risk losing their benefits. She also suggests looking at Personal Independence Payments (PIP), which have more than doubled since 2018, with many claims for anxiety and stress, arguing that these payments are making people dependent on the state.
In other news, Gen Z is claiming to have a quarter-life crisis instead of the normal mid-life version, with almost half of 18 to 29 year olds struggling with adult independence, their future and identity. Blackburn notes that these same people might be called to fight for their country against Mr Putin, but the thought does not fill her with a great deal of cheer.
