Underpaid, constantly scrutinised and often humiliated, we shouldn’t be surprised when our MPs fail us, writes British jewellery designer Kiki McDonough

Good MPs need paying for

The glittering gemstones I work with need firm hands to cut them. Yet our political landscape feels increasingly rough-hewn.

As a designer and businesswoman, I’ve always been inspired by true leadership: the kind that understands risk, rewards enterprise and brings confidence to a nation. Today, I see too little of that.

Back in the 1980s, Margaret Thatcher embodied the spirit of bold, pro‑business governance. I know because I was there, founding my firm in 1985 and thriving in the ‘can do’ attitude she engendered. Thatcher wasn’t interested in tinkering around the edges. She slashed red tape, championed free markets and gave Britain a tough, competitive edge. That era did more than empower businesses, it fostered self‑belief and innovation. I look back and marvel at the stability and momentum she delivered.

Contrast that with the muddled performance of our current crop of MPs and politicians. I’m not just talking about the Prime Minister – I see the same problem on all sides. Yes, our political leaders wage campaign wars, spin nightly news cycles and bicker over........

© City A.M.