From the corridors of Westminster to some of the world's greatest railway journeys, Michael Portillo has lived one of the most colourful and varied lives in British public life.
This November, he joins us in Aberdeen for a special UMF breakfast, sharing the stories, characters and defining moments from a remarkable career spanning politics, television and travel.
The son of a Spanish refugee, Michael rose to become one of the leading political figures of his generation, serving in Margaret Thatcher and John Major's governments before experiencing one of the most famous election defeats in British political history.
What followed was an extraordinary reinvention.
Michael went on to become one of Britain's best-known broadcasters, from his memorable political sparring with Diane Abbott and Andrew Neil to travelling thousands of miles across Britain and around the world for his hugely popular railway programmes.
At UMF, Michael will reflect on encounters with some of the biggest political figures of recent history, the rise and fall of political careers, his unlikely journey into television and the adventures that have taken him across continents.
Funny, candid and full of stories gathered across an extraordinary life, this special breakfast promises a fascinating conversation with one of Britain's most distinctive broadcasters and former statesmen.
Join us for breakfast and an unforgettable journey through politics, broadcasting, travel and a life very well lived.
About Michael Portillo
Michael Portillo attended Harrow County grammar school and Peterhouse, Cambridge, where he read history.
He worked for the Conservative Party and for government ministers between 1976 and 1983. He entered the House of Commons in 1984. He was a minister for eleven years and had three positions in the Cabinet, including Secretary of State for Defence.
He lost his seat at the 1997 election, and began to develop a career in the media. He returned to the Commons between 2000 and 2005, was shadow Chancellor, and contested the leadership of the party in 2001, unsuccessfully.
Since leaving politics, he has devoted himself to writing and broadcasting. He has made radio and television documentaries on a wide range of subjects, including multiple series of “Great British Railway Journeys”.
| Location |
P&J Live East Burn Road, Stoneywood, ABERDEEN, AB21 9FX
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| Availability |
Places available
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