Longford2006

[opening lines]

Talk Show Host:
Today, people, we are *privileged* to have with us a former Labor cabinet minister and leader of the House of Lords, a Knight of the Garter and 7th Earl of Longford, who's come to talk with us about a book he's just written entitled "Saints." Frank Pakenham - Lord Longford - welcome to the show.

Lord Longford:
Thank you very much.

Talk Show Host:
So many questions to ask you, such a long and *distinguished* career. But I'm gonna start with the book. What prompted you to write it?

Lord Longford:
As a lifelong Christian and scholar, I've always been interested in ideas of sanctity. But more than that, I think it was probably the entirely selfish desire to spend a little time with my heroes.

Talk Show Host:
Your "heroes"?

Lord Longford:
Yes, that's what the saints are - my heroes, friends, intercessors.

Talk Show Host:
[not really interested] *Interesting!* Right, the time has just gone 2:15, the subject is saints, we're gonna take some calls. David, you're through to Lord Longford. What's your question about..."the saints"?

Male Caller:
[angry] Actually my question isn't about the saints. I just want to know how your *esteemed* guest can look himself in the mirror each morning?

Talk Show Host:
I'm assuming this is a question about Myra Hindley?

Male Caller:
Yes it is! How could you rub salt in the wounds of the families like that? A man in your position, fraternizing and campaigning on behalf of that monster!

Lord Longford:
[polite, but brisk] Well, I certainly take exception to that description; but I made it quite clear before coming on the program, that I wouldn't be talking about Myra Hindley today.

Talk Show Host:
Of course. Next caller is Judy, who's in Sheppey. You're through to Lord Longford.

Female Caller:
[angry] My call is also about Miss Hindley. In view of *everything* we now know about it, don't you *regret* having supported her all that time?

Lord Longford:
[getting flustered] Once again, madam, I'm afraid I must decline to answer questions about her.

Female Caller:
It's a simple answer, Lord Longford - yes or no? Do you *regret* it? [Lord Longford is agitated, speechless. Talk Show Host stares at him silently, waiting for an answer. Opening credit sequence rolls]