Students given insight into political PR

Alex Aiken, the government's executive director of communications, with Radclyffe School pupils (from left) Kasim Miah, Raihan Shah, Abu Taher Misba, Ali Ahmed and Henna Bibi.

NUMBER 10's top spin doctor had all the answers when he was quizzed by business studies pupils at Radclyffe School.

Alex Aiken, the government's executive director of communications, fielded questions on everything from the role of the Queen and how campaigns are run and influence opinion, to his dream job (a barrister, once it became clear playing for Arsenal wasn't possible).

He also discussed how the communications industry has changed with the advent of e-mail, social media and 24/7 news.

Mr Aiken was director of communications and strategy at Westminster Council for 12 years, before becoming the government's PR tsar in 2012. He has been responsible for creating the Government Communications Service and developing cross-government campaigns.

His talk to Year 10 pupils at the Chadderton secondary was organised by the charity Speakers4Schools, which gives young people opportunities to listen to leading figures from industry, public services, the media and elsewhere.

Andy Maher, head of business studies at Radclyffe, said: "The lesson gave students a fascinating view of how government communicates, looking at important current issues like the EU referendum. We're grateful to Mr Aiken for taking the time to share his expertise."