Hello,

I'm currently working on a research project based around a number of issues currently circulating within British politics, including:

The changing roles of politicians
The ways in which the media is beginning to liken their coverage of politicians to that of celebrities
The growing public disinterest in British politics
The advent of public image over political substance

I would be extremely grateful if you would be able to answer the following questions:

1. Gender

Male/Female

2. Age

0-17
18-30
31-40
41-50
51-60
61+

3. Primarily, how do you access political news?

Broadsheet newspapers
Tabloid newspapers
Journals
Magazines
Television
Online news sources
Blogs
Forums
Other [please state]

4. How often do you access political news in a week?

More than once a day
Once a day
Less than once a day
Once a week
Less than once a week

5. Would you agree that the 'new breed' of political leaders (Brown, Cameron etc.) are more concerned by their public image than their political message when addressing the media on a day-to-day basis?

Yes, strongly agree
Yes
No
No, strongly disagree

6. Does the increasing amount of coverage that is given to the personal lives of politicians, rather than their political activity concern you?

Yes, strongly
Yes
No
No, strongly

7. Do you feel this additional personal coverage is related to a perceived need to 'rekindle' public interest in politics?

Yes, strongly
Yes
No
No, strongly

8. Do you feel the media is beginning to provide politicians with coverage that could be likened to the invasive style of celebrity journalism?

Yes, strongly
Yes
No
No, strongly

If yes, do you think that this is having a detrimental effect on the public's perceptions of politicians, and politics as a whole?

Yes, strongly
Yes
No
No, strongly

9. With electoral turnout at an extreme low (59% in the 2001 election), there is a clear public antipathy towards politics. Why do you feel this is the case?

As said before, I would greatly appreciate any responses.

Feel free to add any opinions/developments/comments

Many thanks,

Dave

NB - I did PM Nicholas to get the go-ahead before posting this