Public's view sought on politics event

Published on Wednesday 7 January 2009 09:25

MEMBERS of the public are being asked to suggest speakers or subjects for this year's Festival of Politics at the Scottish Parliament.

Holyrood bosses are to mark the fifth anniversary of the event – and the tenth anniversary of the parliament – with the longest-ever festival, over five days.

They say they want to hear from individuals and organisations about what they would like to see included in the programme.

The Festival of Politics was launched as a three-day event in 2005. Oscar-winning actress Vanessa Redgrave, BBC broadcaster Andrew Marr and former Labour leader Neil Kinnock were among the big names appearing.

The 2007 festival saw appearances by former Lib Dem leader Charles Kennedy, BBC broadcaster Kate Adie and chef and broadcaster Clarissa Dickson-Wright.

Last year's featured former Labour Chancellor Denis Healey, former Tory Foreign Secretary Douglas Hurd and comedian Mark Thomas.

Planning has already begun for this year's event, which will run from Tuesday August 18 until Saturday August 22.

A suggestions form has been published on the parliament's website www.scottish.parlia ment.uk