Clarke at sea over Harrogate
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.The man in charge of England's schools and colleges yesterday betrayed a blind spot for the country's geography.
Charles Clarke, the Secretary of State for Education, took a swipe in the Commons at an MP for "lounging" on the beach at Harrogate. Although it boasts a promenade and even a pierhead, the genteel North Yorkshire spa town is at least 60 miles from the nearest stretch of coast.
Mr Clarke's blunder came as Harrogate's Liberal Democrat MP, Phil Willis, taunted him over teachers being made redundant while he lounged on Europe's beaches. The Minister replied: "Perhaps I could visit you in Harrogate and lounge on that beach this summer."
Patricia Hewitt, the Trade and Industry Secretary, fell into the same trap last year. Ridiculing Tory policy after the party had held a weekend conference in the town, she said: "It must be all that seaside air in Harrogate."
The town, visited by 2.8 million holidaymakers and business people last year year, has become weary with the frequency that such mistakes are made.
A council spokeswoman said: "I've been asked myself where the sea is."
Mike Gardner, the council leader, said there were 88 springs beneath the town centre's Valley Gardens. "We've got a lot of water, but it's all underground," he said.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments