British political journalist and an ex-member of the Conservative party, Matthew Parris has been in the spotlight of the general public for his entire career. Matthew began his career with being asked to become an M16 officer, however, he declined the offer to work for the Foreign and Commonwealth Office. Here Matthew worked for the Government to promote British interests all over the world. After two years of working there and not enjoying the formality of the role he held, Matthew left to pursue a career that he longed for as a Member of Parliament. Matthew joined the Conservative Research Department to kick start his career as an MP, later becoming Margaret Thatcher's Correspondence Secretary.
He was a member of the parliamentary constituency for West Derbyshire from 1979 to 1986. During his time as an MP Matthew was in the TV spotlight. He took part in a documentary for World Aid, in which he had to live in Newcastle on £26.80. This documentary was demonstrating what it was like to live on social security payment. Eventually, Matthew resigned from being an MP, taking over a presenting job on ITV’s Weekend World. Weekend World saw him presenting a Sunday lunchtime current affairs programme. Since then he has gone on to have other presenting jobs, such as presenting Radio 4’s Any Questions in the midst of the controversy with the News of the World journalists. In December 2017 Matthew had a cameo role in The League of Gentleman. Matthew also has many publications to his name, with journalism now being his current occupation.
He has written Scorn: The Anthology, Chance Witness, Parting Shots, A Castle in Spain, The Spanish Ambassador, Inca-Kola: A Traveller’s Tale of Peru, Great Parliamentary Scandals and many more. Matthews work has been recognised by reputable sources, with a compilation of his work being featured in the Times newspaper. Given his history in politics and journalism, Matthew has notable qualities which paint him as a knowledgeable and trustworthy individual. Additionally, Matthew also has extensive knowledge of the field of Law, graduating from Clare College in Cambridge with a first-class degree in the subject.
How to hire Matthew Parris
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"I have recently had three very pleasant experiences, for all of which you have been responsible. The first was listening to your speech, which was a tour de force. The second was standing in front of the microphone you had just vacated and taking the applause which you had so richly deserved. The third was opening a sheaf of letters over the past few days, all remarking on the excellence of your contribution." - British Venture Capital Association
"A very personable and approachable speaker, who was willing to join in - an entertaining and perfectly pitched speech." - ILAG
