Have your Say!

Should public figures have private lives?

Two news stories have caught my attention this week. Firstly, the media attention received by Kate Middleton, the girlfriend of Prince William, has been widely discussed. Questions have been raised over whether it is acceptable to pursue her throughout her daily life, taking photos and giving chase. The photo of her surrounded by paparazzi while simply walking to her car is particularly shocking. Although media interest is to be expect when Miss Middleton is attending public events with the Prince, it seems totally unnecessary to follow this young woman around relentlessly while she goes about her private business.

Secondly, the decision by the Education Secretary Ruth Kelly to send her son to a private school has received criticism from some, despite the fact he has learning difficulties. Personally, I feel she should do whatever is right for her family, provided her policies do not prevent other families making the same choices for their children. However, some MPs and members of the public take the view that a Labour Minister should be confident enough in the educational standards provided by the Government to use the state system.

These are thorny issues- public figures naturally attract attention and scrutiny. But where do we draw the line? What is an acceptable level of interest? And should those in the spotlight be accountable to the public for every decision they make about their own lives?

I'd love to hear your views!

Yours,

Gary

posted by Gary Streeter M.P. on Wednesday, January 10, 2007