The resignation of David Blunkett, the UK's work and pensions secretary, demonstrates how politicians can be hounded out of office over the slightest of mistakes. Blunkett's fault was a borderline issue but the reality of media politics is that the appearance of impropriety is as damaging as impropriety itself. It is the second time in just a year that he has resigned from a top cabinet post. It is true that he made mistakes and that ministerial codes of conduct cannot be ignored, but there was nothing dishonest or politically underhand in his behaviour.

Despite the embarassments of recent months, the life story of David Blunkett is an inspiration and a great example of how determination can overcome huge challenges in life. He grew up in poverty and his father died in a work accident for which the family received no compensation. As a blind child, he had to fight to be educated properly and to attend university. He became a local councillor while still doing his degree at Sheffield University and, soon after, became a full time politician for nearly forty years until today.

His disability should not be taken for granted. It was a phenomenally difficult hurdle to overcome. It would not be wise to pass judgement quickly on Mr Blunkett - moral issues are usually not black and white affairs. If nothing, his case is proof that there are a lot of things in public life that need to regain a sense of proportion.

This entry was posted on Wednesday, November 02, 2005 at 11:18 PM. You can skip to the end and leave a response.