In The Thick of It: The Private Diaries of a Minister

Alan Duncan's political diaries cover his tenure as Minister of State from 2016-2019, documenting the inner workings of British government during a period of historic change. The entries capture day-to-day operations at the Foreign Office and Parliament through Brexit negotiations and leadership transitions. The diary format presents unfiltered observations of key political figures and behind-closed-doors moments during cabinet meetings, diplomatic missions, and constituency work. Duncan records conversations and decisions that shaped policy during this period, offering perspective as both an insider and observer. The text balances policy discussion with personal reflections on the nature of power, loyalty, and public service. Events are recorded with attention to both their immediate impact and potential historical significance, creating a primary source document of a transformative period in UK politics. Beyond its historical value, the diaries reveal the complex dynamics between personal conviction and party loyalty that shape modern democratic governance. The entries raise questions about transparency, accountability, and the relationship between elected officials and the public they serve.

Readers describe this political diary as gossipy and filled with score-settling, offering an insider view of Brexit-era British politics. Many note Duncan's brutal candor about fellow Conservative politicians, particularly Boris Johnson. Positive reviews focus on: - Detailed day-to-day insights into ministerial life - Humor and sharp observations - Behind-the-scenes revelations about UK foreign policy Common criticisms: - Excessive bitterness and personal attacks - Self-aggrandizing tone - Too much focus on travel logistics and mundane details Ratings: Goodreads: 3.9/5 (126 ratings) Amazon UK: 4.1/5 (1,289 ratings) Sample reader comments: "Deliciously indiscreet" - Guardian reader "Like reading someone's bitter Facebook posts" - Goodreads review "Too much about which airline lounge he used" - Amazon reviewer "A fascinating glimpse into the machinery of government" - Times reader

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🔖 Alan Duncan was the first openly gay Conservative MP in British history, coming out in 2002. 🏛️ The diary covers Duncan's time as Minister of State from 2016-2019, during some of the most turbulent years of British politics surrounding Brexit. 📚 Duncan's candid entries reveal he considered Boris Johnson "a circus act" and "an international stain on our reputation" long before Johnson became Prime Minister. ✍️ The book caused controversy upon release for its brutal assessments of fellow Conservative politicians, with Duncan calling Priti Patel "a nothing person" and Michael Gove "a wacky weirdo." 🌍 As Minister of State for Europe and the Americas, Duncan was responsible for British relations with 75 countries and territories, making his insider account particularly valuable for understanding international diplomacy during the Brexit period.