Alastair Campbell: Live webchat Monday 14 October, 1.45 - 2.45pm

[RachelMumsnet]

Alastair Campbell will be joining us at MNTowers on MONDAY 14th OCTOBER between 1.45 and 2.45pm, where he'll be answering questions and telling us about his latest novel My Name Is...

Alastair is a writer, communicator and strategist best known for his role as former British Prime Minister Tony Blair's spokesman, press secretary and director of communications and strategy. Still active in Labour politics, he now splits his time between writing, speaking, charitable fundraising, politics and campaigns.

My Name Is..., tells the story of a young girl's descent into alcoholism and the impact it has on those around her. The voices of Hannah's family, friends and professionals shed a sometimes shocking, sometimes tender light on a life veering terrifyingly off course.

Come and chat to Alastair TODAY at 1.45pm or post a question in advance on this thread.

[youretoastmildred]

Yep, it really does - that way it is an actual conversation, which is what everyone wants.

However, the book is a bit rubbish. At least, I downloaded the kindle sample, and that much is rubbish. He is a much better conversationalist than a writer! leaden, stodgy, cliched prose. sorry, Al.

[LeGavrOrf]

That was a great webchat, right from the start about the mumsnetters husband accosting him at Leicester sq tube.

Confirms all my thoughts about stroppy ginger blokes.

I will certainly buy that book. I love the Alastair Campbell diaries, especially when he shouts at Tony Blair and has rows with Neil Kinnock. Extraordinary also that he was pals with Alan Clark.

A real shame I missed this webchat. It was a really good one.

Doesn't it make a HUGE difference when we get a contributor who can read questions and answer them quickly.

[mignonette]

Artisan . . Am off to bed laughing my head off. The Things you find out on here.

Just thought that after the Darius Danesh Kilt incident, some folks in the public eye might have pulled a pair of tightie whities on....

[MissBeehiving]

Artisan

[ArtisanLentilWeaver]

mignonette - you will find that nothing is worn under the kilt and that it it is all in perfect working order.

[mignonette]

Well he challenged me to find out what was under his kilt in a manner of words.

He is slick without being oleaginous. Quite a feat in politics.

[ButThereAgain]

He was good, wasn't he. I like how he ignored all the letching with such dignity. I suppose even the MN horde is a piece of cake for the great communicator.

[AmberLeaf]

Missed him, darn it!

That was a good one.

[SunshineSuperNova]

Thank you Alastair, I was delighted (and surprised) that you answered my question. :)

[domesticslattern]

Very good webchat, even if he never got around to my question. Thanks for organising MNHQ
It wasn't my DH at Leicester Sq station, so come on, whose was it???

[HokeyCokeyPigInAPokey]

What a refreshing read - how nice to read such straight talking and honesty.

[MissBeehiving]

God, I love sexy intelligent blokes

[Lizzabadger]

Great webchat.

[OddSockMonster]

Wow, really enjoyed reading that, very impressed. Will watch C4 tonight too I think.

[PetiteRaleuse]

Excellent chat, thanks MNHQ :)

[JustBecauseICan]

I'd do him

[noddyholder]

Pass the smelling salts

[sadeyedladyofthelowlandsea]

That was brilliant! And so much better than Gok.

[TheGreatMumungo]

Hi Alistair,

Hope you're well!

If it were you deciding, what would your strategy be to help mums on a budget juggling the family finances?

Thanks

[youretoastmildred]

I can remember doing typing tests at temp agencies and practising for them to get my wage up. Something similar could be brought in at MNHQ. We were also incentivised by a doggy-bag buffet lunch. Justine, do you think you could look into this when planning future web chats? ;)

[HatticusFinch]

Gah, too slow with the follow up!

Great chat MNHQ, great to see a wide range of question being answered.

[JaquelineHyde]

Just read through, can't believe I missed it. I really like AC, and have huge respect for all the campaigning he now does.

The new book has gone on the Christmas list just after Mo Farah's new book.

[pollycazalet]

Yes Mildred - the "six questions and can I shoehorn a mention of the product I am flogging in every single one" webchats are just embarrassing.