Friday, 5 March 2010

Campaign wives

The leaders of the British political parties may be centre stage when it comes to appealing to voters to pick their their. But their wives provide a fascinating counterpoint.

Nick Clegg, the Liberal Democrat leader, is married to a Spanish woman called Miriam González Durantez. She is an international lawyer, specialising in trade and foreign affairs. She remains, however, under the radar.

David Cameron's wife, Samantha has a slightly higher profile. Her dress sense was commented on by Conservative conference delegates. She heads a de luxe fashion and stationery brand, Smythson of Bond Street. Both Camerons have ancestry leading to royalty.

Gordon Brown's wife, Sarah, may be a subtle yet telling asset to the current prime minister. She was previously a book publishing PR executive and, as the prime minister's wife, has forged a strong network of friends and acquaintances while promoting a number of charitable causes. In a strange way, it is as if Mr Brown is married to a expert media consultant: not exactly Maxine Clifford, but very savvy none-the-less.

My guess is that Sarah Brown is a very important voice in how the Labour party presents itself and, with the general election beckoning, her influence may be key.

I've no idea who would bake the best cookies, though, which is often a factor in US presidential elections.




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