The glamour of politics

Oh dear, almost a week without posting, what a poor show. Before I ramble on, I must thank Miss Schlegel for the plug in her piece on three humungous artworks last week (love the video in that post).

I had intended posting about the disgusting 42 day detention and secret inquests vote, and then on the fallout of David Davis’s unexpected resignation, but I’ve just not had the time. However, there is one political story I couldn’t let pass, having spoken to two of the people at the centre of it.

I spent today outside London, meeting clients to discuss various future projects, and ended up in Henley-on-Thames for lunch. As I left the restaurant with my clients, we were stopped in our tracks by two of the candidates standing in the Henley by-election.

Amanda Harrington and Louise Cole are both standing for the Miss Great Britain Party in the by-election triggered by Boris Johnson standing down as MP to become London Mayor.

Now admittedly they weren’t as scantily clad as they were for the publicity photo, but their, er, physical charms were very evident, which turned plenty of heads in twee and conservative Henley.

We didn’t have time for an in-depth discussion on the Irish rejection of the Lisbon Treaty, but Ms Harrington did tell us that she’s campaigning for full tax relief on child care for all working mothers (a surprisingly sensible policy actually), before handing us an A4 photo of herself looking very glamourous.

Funnily enough, the Sun - not normally a paper to indulge in gratuitous photos of young women in states of undress - has taken an interest in the story.

Amanda Harrington, 26 from Aintree in Liverpool, added: “I am not a politician and I’ll be the first to admit that it is not my specialist subject.

“But I pride myself on being savvy and I can be hugely influential – especially with men. Besides, it is important to keep up the recent tradition of having a blonde MP in Henley!”

The other candidates standing in the by-election include Bananaman Owen (Monster Raving Loony) and a bear (Fur Play Party). Either of whom would presumably have more sensible policies than BoJo the Clown.

So, is this a bit of harmless fun? Just a crap publicity stunt to promote a sexist beauty pageant? Or is this just a crap publicity stunt to promote a sexist beauty pageant that also rather sums up what a joke the British political system has become? (Or is it just an excuse for me to post a picture of large-breasted ladies?)

After last week’s lack of principles and behind-the-scenes bribes and deals to secure the vote in parliament, I’d say the ’serious’ politicians are doing a good job of making a mockery of our parliamentary democracy without any help from anyone else.

BTW, an attractive clock featuring Amanda Harrington is available.

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