Interview with Charles Clarke, 13 October 2009

Charles Clarke was Secretary of State for Education and Skills from 2002-04. He discusses his enjoyment of history as a subject and the dangers of political influence over the history curriculum. During his period in office, he encouraged partnerships with the subject associations, including history. In his view, the concept of a national narrative is not helpful but the National Curriculum has been useful as an entitlement to the 'whole sweep of history' for all students.