Valentine's day, and Education Guardian's interview with Tony Blair -- questions from me -- is out. I hope it doesn't read like a love-in, writes Will Woodward.
Still, it begs the question: what do you say to the man who has been asked everything? Readers in colleges and universities will be frustated that there was little mention of further and higher education, though we did squeeze in a couple at the end.
Not so long ago, had I had the chance to talk to Blair, I would have asked 95% of my questions about top-up fees. But these interviews should go where the action is; and that, at the moment is all in schools, and specifically admissions. Reading back my write-up and also the transcript, I'm struck by his enthusiasm for, not just his acceptance of, faith schools. And also how clearly Blair locates himself at the centre of British politics: not just central as in the top man, but as the centrepoint separating left and right. I'm pretty sure Blair would place himself exactly in the middle of any left-right spectrum.
While I'm here, can I invite bloggers who would also like to offer a comment on the interview for publication in the supplement to send it to education.letters@theguardian.com, with name and address etc. We'll print a selection next Tuesday.
