PAUL SAFFER on Robin Day, the always-humble Grand Inquisitor who gave us BBC’s Question Time. Continue reading
Author Archives: Paul Saffer
Ashdown in the lead
The late Paddy Ashdown’s election as Lib Dem leader in 1988 appears routine, but PAUL SAFFER points out the significance of the contest. Continue reading
Denis Compton’s English magic
PAUL SAFFER delves into a 1950s book for boys & finds more grit than glamour. And some imperialist football. Continue reading
Lenin on the goalpost
Long before the 2018 World Cup, a Radio 4 sitcom explored the links between Russia and football, says PAUL SAFFER. Continue reading
Carry on Brexiting
Is Danny Dyer heir to the legacy of Kenneth Williams? asks PAUL SAFFER. Continue reading
Purves power
PAUL SAFFER explains how Peter Purves invented modern football at Italia 90. Continue reading
From Rous with love
PAUL SAFFER remembers the last English president of FIFA. Sir Stanley wouldn’t have approved of the modern game. Continue reading
Kicking sport into politics
Ex-footballer George Weah has just been elected president of Liberia – but where are Britain’s sporting politicos? PAUL SAFFER finds a few, but has to dig deep. Continue reading
Doing deals with Ulstermen
The history of British governments relying on Irish MPs hasn’t always been a happy one, finds PAUL SAFFER. Continue reading
Through the past, gladly
PAUL SAFFER on how the 2017 election matches up to those of the past. Continue reading
Election night highlights: 1987
Esther Rantzen, George Galloway and Mars bars – it must be the BBC election coverage, says PAUL SAFFER. Continue reading
Election night highlights: 1974
What should we trust: astrology or an exit poll? PAUL SAFFER seeks the answer. Continue reading
