Rob Burley Appointed Honorary Fellow at University of Liverpool’s Department of Politics

Rob Burley Appointed Honorary Fellow at University of Liverpool’s Department of Politics

(IN BRIEF) Rob Burley, an acclaimed TV producer and author, has been appointed as an Honorary Fellow at the University of Liverpool’s Department of Politics. Known for his role in political television, Burley’s 2023 book Why Is This Lying Bastard Lying To Me inspired the new Channel 4 political drama Brian and Maggie. The drama explores the famous 1989 interview between Margaret Thatcher and Brian Walden, which is featured in Burley’s book. Burley, who has worked with major political presenters, will now contribute to the university’s research on political scandals, offering his expertise through various academic events and collaborations. The appointment highlights the strong link between his work and the department’s ongoing research in British politics.

(PRESS RELEASE) LIVERPOOL, 29-Jan-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — Renowned TV producer and political expert Rob Burley has been named an Honorary Fellow at the University of Liverpool’s Department of Politics. Burley, best known for his award-winning career in political television, is also the author of the widely praised 2023 book Why Is This Lying Bastard Lying To Me, which inspired the new Channel 4 political drama Brian and Maggie, premiering today, 29 January.

Why Is This Lying Bastard Lying To Me offers an insider’s perspective on the challenges of holding politicians accountable during TV interviews. A key chapter of the book highlights a landmark 1989 interview between former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher and political journalist Brian Walden. This pivotal interview, which played a significant role in Thatcher’s eventual resignation, is the basis for Brian and Maggie, with Steve Coogan and Harriet Walter portraying the characters of Thatcher and Walden.

Burley, a prominent figure in the UK political television landscape, has worked alongside renowned political presenters like Emily Maitlis, Jeremy Paxman, and Laura Kuenssberg, contributing to ITV, LBC, and the BBC’s flagship programs such as Newsnight and Question Time. His book has received wide acclaim, including recognition as one of Waterstones’ Political Books of 2023.

Currently, Burley is collaborating with the University of Liverpool’s Department of Politics as part of his ongoing research into political scandals, which will be the subject of his upcoming book. As an Honorary Fellow, he will contribute to a variety of academic events, including masterclasses, and support the department’s research initiatives.

“I’m incredibly honoured to be appointed as an Honorary Fellow at the University of Liverpool’s Department of Politics,” Burley said. “The department’s expertise in British politics makes it the perfect place for my current research on political scandals. Liverpool holds a special place in my heart, and I look forward to contributing to its academic community in meaningful ways.”

Professor Samantha Ashenden, Head of the Department of Politics, welcomed Burley’s appointment: “We are thrilled to have Rob join us as an Honorary Fellow. His extensive experience in political television and his recent work on political lying and scandals align perfectly with our department’s ongoing research. We look forward to collaborating with Rob on a variety of academic initiatives in the future.”

Media Contacts:

Joanne Carr
Deputy Director of Communications and Public Affairs
T: +44 (0)7825 434900
E: jocarr@liverpool.ac.uk

Catrin Owen
Media Relations Manager – Humanities and Social Sciences
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E: catrin.owen@liverpool.ac.uk

Sarah Stamper
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E: sarah.stamper@liverpool.ac.uk

Jennifer Morgan
Media Relations Manager – Health and Life Sciences
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E: J.L.Morgan@liverpool.ac.uk

Alison Cornmell
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E: Alison.Cornmell@liverpool.ac.uk

SOURCE: University of Liverpool