Arguing your corner in a controversial discussion on international relations. On a primetime comedy show. Live. Whilst being simultaneously dazzled by the digital projection of luminous 3D cubes dancing eerily on the screen behind you. Fazed? I would be. But not so for our author and Executive Editor of Total Politics Shane Greer, who appeared last night on Channel 4’s 10 O’Clock Live to discuss the merits of international intervention in Libya.
Appearing as cool as a cucumber in front of the camera is no mean feat, but needless to say, having edited a book called So You Want to Be a Politician - and authoring a chapter on ‘Surviving the Studio’ - Shane was prepared. A handbook for anyone considering standing for election, or indeed looking to run a political campaign of any kind, this book provides essential advice and strategies on how to get to where you want to go.
So back to last night. Appearing alongside a rather strident Tansy Hoskins from the Stop the War Coalition and a sensible-sounding Rory Stewart MP, Shane’s position on the matter was one of principled conviction: it is unacceptable for the international community to stand by whilst Libyan citizens lose their lives at the hands of a dictator who has failed to fulfil the primary responsibility of any leader – that of protecting the state’s citizens. It is imperative, Shane argued, that we support the opposition forces in their struggle.
‘Intervention’, however, is a multi-faceted concept and there is more than one way to skin a cat. We don’t necessarily have to rally the troops and march them into Libya – in Shane’s words, ‘put boots on the ground’ – to help ameliorate the Libyan situation. As Shane suggested on the program last night, we could start by officially recognizing the Libyan rebels – as France has done – and British money and arms could perhaps follow close behind.
To find out more about the background to the situation in Libya, and to learn about the type of individual we're dealing with, take a look at Daniel Kawczynski's book Seeking Gaddafi, available here priced £19.99
So You Want to Be a Politician is available here priced £14.99