VIEWPOINT
Jenni Murray
Ahead of the general election, our columnist looks back on previous campaigns – and the politicians she met along the way
Aha! An election is called to be held on 4 July. A familiar jolt of excitement runs through my body. I’m reminded that we’re now in the ‘pre-election period of sensitivity’, known officially as purdah. It’s knowledge that’s been hammered into me since I was 24 years old. The BBC demands impartiality at all times, but great care must be taken to show equal fairness to all candidates and no hint of favouritism that might reveal your own political leanings.
But what does it matter now? This is the first election in 40 years that I won’t have to worry about covering. What a relief. I can simply look back on memories of terrifying encounters with the great and frequently not so good of political stardom and long, boring nights at counts.