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I’m a big fan of Question Time, and watch it when I can. Unfortunately, it’s not as frequent as I’d like. Tonight’s programme has been one of the better panels (but then Shirley Williams and Ian Hislop are favourites of mine), and more interesting range of subjects, in a while.

I was quite chuffed to find myself in the audience in 2001’s party political leader programmes, specifically Tony Blair. I was the guy at the back, in the red shirt, you can hear laughing (if you know me, you’d spot me ;-), with his hand up a fair amount, but regrettably overshadowed by another member of the audience who decided to ignore David Dimblebey’s request to keep points “brief and to the point”. She went on to make national headlines on an important matter, but - I felt - seriously annoyed many in the audience who had equally legitimate points to make and abided by the “rules”. It was a strange experience, but our “warm up” question on the Millenium dome was sadly excluded from the broadcast, and it was easily the most revealing (and somewhat disconcerting) response that Tony Blair gave. It left me with a peculiarly negative feeling towards his persona that I’ve not had cause to shake since.

Anyway, it seems that the programme is coming to Glasgow next week, so I’ve just put my name down in the hope they’ll find some appeal in a resident Englishman’s perspective on the no doubt heavy Scottish focus the programme will have. With Tommy Sheridan in the headlines once more, I wouldn’t be surprised if he’s on the panel, along with a few other wonderful characters from politics up here. I’m no fan of Nicola Sturgeon, but I’m sure she’d make for a more interesting programme.

Whether or not I’m on the programme (or despite the fact!), watch it if you can. It’s a wonderful part of the public debate in this country. Frequently fascinating. Invariably challenging. Always worth watching.