I’ve decided that we need to stage an exhibition in advance of finding a permanent site for the new Museum of British History. I was a bit worried that our new capital project would fall under the coalition’s axe but the minister’s special adviser Bullingdon was bullish as always.
“The government wants to convince the public that Britain has a glorious past,” he said “in the hope that they’ll forget about the bloody miserable present.”
My original idea was to revisit the 1851 Great Exhibition with an updating of Britain’s splendid story around the globe but Bullingdon ruled that out quick smart. “Are you forgetting the Millennium Dome fiasco?” were his precise words.
On reflection he might be right so I thought perhaps we’d better find another focus for the exhibition. Something to capture the spirit of the times perhaps? Something of real substance that could travel to all four home nations (although finding a suitable venue in some of the further flung corners might prove tricky).
I toyed with the idea of Gay Icons, but the V&A has rather cornered the market on that front after its success with Kylie and the Supremes.
Then I had a brainwave – what about a show on a popular straight icon? The Welsh have first claim on Tom Jones but we have Cliff Richard! I was dubious about his sexual orientation though – it’s so hard to tell these days – but my PA Maureen assured me that in her view he’s not gay, just very, very Christian.
I’m convinced the show will be popular with elderly ladies and some members of the cabinet. Those still capable of standing will go weak at the knees.
