When I think of politics I have a tendency to think of arguments, division, polarised opinions and the generally volatile, critical and un-trusting culture that seems to surround it. For me it’s easy to lose sight that it is also a process that has the potential to bring great change and improve people’s lives and is in many ways a rich part of this country’s history.
In this project about people who follow a passion I hope to explore what drives people and therefore in this context, explore things from a more personal perspective. Nick Clegg is my local MP in Sheffield, whilst previously he’s been an MEP, leader of the Liberal Democrats and the Deputy Prime Minister from 2010 to 2015.
What’s your story of getting into politics?
It was quite accidental. I couldn’t bear a lot of politics. It crept up on me – two things happened. I became interested in political ideas. My family was affected by wars and revolutions. I began to have respect for the importance of political ideas – as I got older my interest increased and I became increasingly liberal. I studied for a year at university in Minnesota and I spent a lot of time in the library – I was impacted by what I read. The second thing that happened was that I became so frustrated at how things were getting messed up by the government – to the extent that our country could end up out on a limb. As we nudged towards that I became actively involved – originally becoming an MEP in the mid 90’s. A lot of the drive was a sense of despair at what was happening and an increased belief in liberalism – the idea that people can live out their lives and dreams regardless of the circumstances of their birth!
What do you love about it?
It’s variety. One moment you’re talking to someone who’s complaining about their neighbour’s overgrown hedge, the next moment you’re debating the merits of staying in the EU. Politics local, national and international. The thrill of changing things for the better is also something I love to see, for example, the way local schools are making use of the Pupil Premium or healthy free lunches at primary school.
What’s hardest about it?
Life isn’t perfect. Idealism comes up against messy reality. Life is full of difficult compromises. There is always a big gap… between the ideal and what you can actually do. But that doesn’t mean you should stop trying.
How would you sum it up in three words?
Tough but worthwhile!
Anytime when you thought about giving up?
No – but there were times when I considered resigning as party leader. I’m very fortunate in that I have a very strong and supportive family and group of friends. I tend to listen to them and I will also listen to critics that are sincere rather than those that just want to drag you down. Politically what keeps me going is that I am pleased to be part of a team that keeps the banner of liberalism alive.
A particular moment of joy/a high?
Yes – a very dry set of statistics were released sometime in 2014. They showed that for the first time in a very long time the gap between disadvantaged children and their better off peers was closing – significantly impacted by policies we had helped put in place, such as the pupil premium. I was so so pleased. It will take years but my whole view is based on the idea that your fate should be in your own hands and not your parent’s bank balance.
Is there anything you are particularly looking forward to or ambitions you have?
My three boys – my life revolves around them and their happiness…It’s what motivates me beyond anything else.
Beyond that, to stand up for the values I believe in and helping the Liberal Democrats move forward.
What are you most proud of?
Probably in the changes we’ve made when I would say the country was in a state of peril (politically). We provided some stability and good sense. I think it was a brave thing to do – to put the country first. I hope that in time people will realise that that’s what we did.
Has anyone been a particular inspiration to you?
My mum played a very key role. She is very strong and a very compassionate Dutch lady. She was a Montessori teacher. She instilled in me and my siblings a strong sense of compassion. Also she inspired us not to not accept how things are, but to believe you can change things. She is a remarkably happy, tolerant, loving and giving person. She had a very strong faith. Both my parents offered warmth, love and security.
Favourite quote that has inspired you on your way?
I hope this doesn’t sound pretentious but I like the poem by William Blake;
“He who binds to himself a joy
Does the winged life destroy
He who kisses the joy as it flies
Lives in eternity’s sunrise”
