Politicians appearing on the programme expect to be questioned robustly, with the positions of their parties being examined in detail on behalf of our listeners.  Emma Barnett’s approach to this interview was in line with this. 

The focus at the start of this interview was the postponement by two years of four English mayoral elections which were set to take place next year.  Mr Tice explained Reform’s perspective on the reasons for this.  It was appropriate for Emma to scrutinise statements Mr Tice made, and to reflect the government’s position.  

When speaking to politicians from any party we use the opportunity to also ask them about wider issues of significance aside from their specific brief or what they may have initially come on the programme to discuss. In this context, Emma raised the matter of allegations made against Nigel Farage that he had been responsible for racist abuse towards other pupils when a student at Dulwich College.  As Reform are putting themselves forward to be the next potential government it is legitimate for us to address claims about the conduct of their leader.  Mr Tice had used the term “dictatorial”, which led Emma to reference comments Mr Farage is alleged to have made about Hitler, when moving the conversation onto this topic.

Mr Tice responded vociferously and was given the time to make his points, including saying that these claims were “made up twaddle”.  It was fair and legitimate for Emma to challenge Mr Tice on this, and to highlight the seemingly contradictory position of Mr Tice saying Reform battled antisemitism with him then accusing those who made allegations of antisemitism of lying.

We believe Emma Barnett approached this interview in the duly impartial and rigorous manner that our listeners would expect from a political interview.