Clair Holden

Wednesday

Clair Holden

The vibes are strong with Andy Burnham

From our UK edition

As seen in the New World When that More In Common poll dropped this week showing Andy Burnham comfortably ahead of Reform, SW1 was flabbergasted. But as an avid follower of social media trends, a millennial journalist who began digital first, I was only surprised that the bounce hadn’t been bigger. All weekend my WhatsApp groups have been buzzing with the latest Andy Burnham online viral memes. In ‘Babe.net class of 14’, a video from X was shared of Pat McFadden, Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, having a Brat summer. In another called ‘Soho Reading Society’ someone posted a clip of Sue Gray doing the Cinnamon Challenge and Douglas Alexander hitting a perfect whip and nae nae on College Green.

Wednesday

Clair Holden

Do I vibe with Rupert Lowe?

From our UK edition

As seen in the New World What are the vibes of Rupert Lowe? That’s the question on my mind as I arrive at his parliamentary office, and find the door ajar. The MP for Great Yarmouth is sitting on a quilted armchair, stock still and staring straight ahead. ‘Um? Hi? Rupert? It’s Claire Holden – you said to pop by at 1?’ Rupert jolts to life. ‘Thank you so much for coming, sit down. No stand up. Actually you should sit yourself down – never could do business with a man I’m not looking at eye to eye.’ ‘Like I always say, a bird in the hand is worth a premium fountain pen’ I gingerly take my seat, notes app ready. ‘So, Rupert. Clearly Andy Burnham will have to deal with the bond markets. And it seems like they have a lot of control over our lives now.