Sir Danny Alexander

Danny Alexander served as Chief Secretary to The Treasury during one of the most politically and economically eventful periods in recent history. A key member of the Conservative/Lib-Dem government, he also has a unique insight into the workings of Britain’s first coalition government for over 60 years.

After a period working as Communications Director for the Britain in Europe campaign, Danny entering parliament and was appointed Lib-Dem junior spokesman for Work and Pensions with responsibility for disability issues, welfare and pensions. He later took the front bench work and pensions brief as well as becoming leader Nick Clegg’s Chief of Staff. Following the 2010 general election hung parliament, Danny was one of the four negotiators charged with brokering an agreement to form a government with the Conservatives.

After a brief stint as Secretary of State for Scotland, Danny was appointed Chief Secretary, leading Lib-Dem economic policy within government and forming part of the ‘quad’, the quartet of party leaders including David Cameron, George Osborne and Nick Clegg. Danny was at the forefront of trying to assert an influence over Conservative economic policy, particularly as it related to the cuts programme and broader economic issues. He also had responsibility for fiscal policy, was a member of the National Security Council, and chaired the cabinet committee responsible for infrastructure investment.

Danny offers an insight into how the coalition dealt with the aftermath of the biggest financial crisis in 70 years, as well as a more current look at the UK economy. He also looks at broader themes such as leadership and negotiation with his experience in coalition, as well as an analysis of the political climate and the future of the UK and Europe. He also takes a lighter look at his experience in government, the ups and downs, the scary and the strange, and life as a cabinet minister charged with telling his colleagues ‘no’.