This end of year review is part of a series from Backbench’s editorial team as they consider some of the themes that have dominated 2020. The views expressed in these reviews are those of the editors themselves and do not…
This piece is part of a series from Backbench exploring the US 2020 presidential election. To have your say and share your opinions on this defining moment for the US, email your pitches and articles to editor@bbench.co.uk. To talk of…
This article is part of a series from Backbench’s editorial team which examines this year’s Black History Month from the angle of ‘making history’. The opinions expressed in these pieces are those of the editors themselves, and do not necessarily…
Memory is a peculiar thing. Some moments stick in your mind from years gone by, while others from days ago become immediately cloudy. One particular physical education lesson at school when I was 12 is an example of the former.…
It is hardly clandestine that Victoria’s Secret is not the industry giant that it once was. The lingerie and beauty company has faced economic decline since their chief marketing officer, Ed Razek, made highly offensive comments in an interview with…
In an attempt to fight the invisible enemy we find ourselves at war with, measures have been taken across the globe. Borders have been closed, areas quarantined and flights cancelled. And yet as the walls came down, a glimmer of light has…
‘It was the best of times, it was the worst of times’. Writing in 1859, Charles Dickens had no idea just how poignant his immortal words could be centuries later. As the world faces an unprecedented global health pandemic, we…
How one defines the government’s relationship with the media has always been subjective. What one man views as a suitably close and seemingly open relationship, is another’s idea of disaster. Prime Ministers have come and gone but one question has…
The South West is known for many things. It is the home of Glastonbury music festival, artisan foods and the literary genius Thomas Hardy. For as long as I can recall I had always felt pride in calling the area…