- #1
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Does the British PM normally travel on commercial flights? I find this quite unusual!
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/6211307.stm
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/6211307.stm
BBC said:
British PM Tony Blair: Travel Habits and Miami Incident
- Context: News
- Thread starter Gokul43201
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Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around the travel habits of British Prime Minister Tony Blair, particularly in relation to a specific incident where a British Airways plane overshot a runway in Miami. Participants explore the implications of his choice to travel on commercial flights versus private ones, as well as the public perception of such decisions.
Discussion Character
- Debate/contested
- Conceptual clarification
Main Points Raised
- Some participants express surprise at the British PM traveling on commercial flights, questioning the norm and safety implications for the public.
- There are inquiries about whether armed guards accompany the PM during such travels, raising concerns about public safety.
- One participant draws a metaphorical comparison between the British political system and a beehive, suggesting a hierarchy that includes a "Queen bee" figure.
- Another participant notes that Blair had faced criticism for using the Queen's Flight for personal travel, indicating a shift to commercial flights for non-official business.
- Comments on the practicality of traveling with significant luggage suggest a personal aspect to the discussion regarding the Blair family's travel habits.
- One participant supports the idea of using commercial airlines, likening it to a principle of equality in travel choices.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants do not reach a consensus on the appropriateness of the PM's travel choices, with multiple viewpoints presented regarding the implications and norms of such decisions.
Contextual Notes
There are references to public perception and criticism of the PM's travel choices, but the discussion lacks detailed exploration of the underlying policies or security protocols involved.
Who May Find This Useful
Individuals interested in political travel norms, public safety concerns related to high-profile figures, and the dynamics of British political systems may find this discussion relevant.
- #2
Evo
Staff Emeritus
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That does seem rather odd, did they have their armed guards flying along also? What kind of risk does this put the traveling public in?Gokul43201 said:
- #3
ray b
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He is just the head worker bee in a system
that has a Queen bee unlike ours
we have no royal so invent one in the president
but they cannot have two in their system
away a PM can and has been quickly replaced as needed
that has a Queen bee unlike ours
we have no royal so invent one in the president
but they cannot have two in their system
away a PM can and has been quickly replaced as needed
- #4
neutrino
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ray b said:
.- #5
BobG
Science Advisor
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Gokul43201 said:
Bargain-price Blairs fly in but are spared the no-frills scrummage
Blair had received quite a bit of criticism for using the Queen's Flight for personal travel earlier this year. Now he travels commercial unless it's on official business.
Evidently, Mrs. Blair likes to be prepared for any occasion while travelling. I guess she has a lot of luggage.
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- #6
brewnog
Science Advisor
Gold Member
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Fair play to them. If Ryanair is good enough for the gander, there's no reason why they shouldn't be using it.