15 Minutes of Power: The Uncertain Life of British Ministers

by Peter Riddell

Aside for the secretaries of state, those lofty roles at the Home Office, MOD, Exchequer, and Foreign office, the ministers of the UK are a cast of roles that expand, and contract based on the whims and political needs of the Prime Minister. Within their portfolios those MPs and Lords are immensely powerful - able to reshape whole sectors of British society, grant or refuse government contracts and planning permission, and intervene in matters throughout the country. And yet, few members of the British Public could name every single minister and fewer still could say the extent of each minister's responsibilities. We like to imagine that they are competent, prepared, and entirely in control, and we hold them to standards as though they are. But they are often none of those things. These men and women serve at the pleasure of the Prime Minister. Any misstep or scandal can invite media attention, public outcry, and their swift departure. At the same time, their resignations can shatter political alliances and bring down Prime Ministers and even governments. Their positions are, therefore, both immensely powerful and precarious. In Fifteen Minutes of Power , Peter Riddell draws on interviews with former ministers, conducted on behalf of the Institute of Government, to reveal the fraught existence of these powerful men and women.

Genres: Politics, Nonfiction

320 pages, Hardcover

Published July 4, 2019

Reviews

[Jacob Stelling · Rating 4 out of 5]

A really interesting insight into the unique British system of government, by looking at it from the perspective of a level now usually considered - junior ministers.

What really struck me from this was how bad our system can seem when you look at it analytically, rather than just ‘this is the way it’s always been’. Issues such as ministerial turnover and the complete lack of preparation for taking on these roles can often lead to deficiencies at the heart of govt.

Overall, a fascinating read which offers some interesting suggestions for improvement.

[Lewis · Rating 2 out of 5]

Okay book, had some useful insights and arguments against current practises of ministers, but I felt like it was missing a lot of counter arguments. They were just not brought up at all, sometimes, as if there weren't any, when I could think of some. Even if they're not good, the book should still address them. Also some sections felt a bit repetitive, and the length was padded out with excessive quotes or references that said the same thing.
2.5/5

[Kristófer Guðmundsson · Rating 3 out of 5]

Hélt hún væri fyndnari, frekar teknóbjúrókratísk, en áhugaverð

[Colin · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is an interesting and topical consideration of the stresses and strains of Ministerial life, read as we are on the brink of a new Ministry in the UK. It draws on the reflections of those who were Ministers over the last ten years or so (hence it includes Labour, Lib Dem and Conservative politicians).

There is nothing particularly new or revelatory about this book and although the suggestions for improving the quality of Ministerial work, such as training, agreeing objectives and reducing the turnover, are worthy, I doubt that in the current and likely state of politics, they will come to pass.

The book would have benefited from direct input from past Prime Ministers, as the direction essentially comes from them. But as a view of what Ministerial life currently entails, this is a useful account.

[Ophelia · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was given this book before embarking on a role in the civil service, and it provided a thorough insight into the role of British ministers and how they can be most effective. I fear the title gives the impression that it's a bit more thrilling than the reality, however there are many interesting nuggets of honesty from interviews with former ministers.

It would have strengthened the chapter of relations with No10 to have the view point of some former Prime Ministers and others with central roles in setting the government agenda from Downing Street.

Overall, a useful account to understand the inherent difficulties in holding ministerial office and in our political system.

[Mark Allinson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting overview of the role of ministers, junior and senior, based largely on the reflections of recent post holders. Insightful comments and analysis, and clear conclusions, if emphasised a little repetitively. Largely debunks the Yes Minister myths by a focus also on the role of civil servants.

[Jonny Brick · Rating 4 out of 5]

Full of wisdom from former ministers, with good conclusions about why there are too many, and too ill-experienced, people in charge of important briefs.

[Fred Frisbee · Rating 3 out of 5]

For someone who loves politics this was a little boring and read like a collection of interviews. Would have preferred a blueprint for what can be done better