Lord Speaker's Corner: Lord Blunkett

Lord McFall of Alcluith speaks to former Home Secretary David Blunkett - Lord Blunkett - about his 36-year career in Parliament in the latest episode of Lord Speaker's Corner.

'We anticipated there might be a second attack, particularly on the City of London.'

In this episode, Lord Blunkett discusses a range of topics including the government's immediate response to the tragic events of 9/11, clashing with the Lords over measures introduced post the attacks and how his opinion of the second chamber has subsequently changed.

'There were times, particularly when I was at the Home Office, when the House of Lords asked us to think again and we actually did. And the Anti-terrorism, Crime and Security Act, which was the aftermath of 11 September, was a much better piece of legislation - much more balanced, much more effective - than it would've been had we not listened to the House of Lords with the expertise that existed there.'

Lord Blunkett is one of two members of the Lords who use guide dogs, and he explains how important they have been to him. He also talks about his time in Parliament, his work as Education Secretary and what he thinks is the reason he has got to where he is today - 'sheer pigheadedness', having rejected advice to aim for work in 'piano tuning or telephony or secretarial.'

Finally, Lord Blunkett shares a message for young people today, taking inspiration from both his career and his recent work on education reform:

‘Believe that in even the smallest way, you can make the world a better place. And if it's a better place for you, it's a better place for others around you. So don't take no for an answer, participate when you can... Get a life, get a future, but please stay engaged because if you don't engage with decision-making, if you don't vote, somebody else is voting for you.’

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