Across The Pond: Question Time

By Nina Kaufman

Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

The British excel in verbal fisticuffs. Could our political debates benefit from their seemingly transparent and direct approach?

Maybe it's something in their educational system, but the British (and yes, I've noticed this with all of the English, Irish, Welsh, and Scottish people I've met) love a good political discussion. They gnaw on it like a dog with a bone. Chomp, chomp, chomp, drink a little water (or beer) and then go back to the bone, trying it from all angles. I saw that firsthand at the LSE Student Union meetings--like the way the minor leagues prime baseball players for what to expect in the majors.

One of the fun differences, however, is "Question Time." If you've ever listened to it on the BBC, it's compelling television. Sort of the way a three-car pileup on the Long Island Expressway is compelling. Unlike our C-SPAN debates (which don't deserve the name, in my view). Scripted presentations given in near-empty chambers where politicians drone on interminably and the rest of those who happen to be present w-a-i-t until the member finishes to deliver their version of a verbal dressing down (assuming anyone is still awake to notice). That's not debate: that's revolving-door speechmaking.

Oh no--Question Time can often morph into the verbal equivalent of the bar-fight scenes in Road House. The prime minister (among other government ministers) has to stand up in front of the House of Commons and defend his position to a querulous opposition. No teleprompters here (although as politicians, they know how to stay on their messaging). If the back-benchers could throw rotten vegetables, they'd do it.

Here's just a small sample of what you can expect from Question Time:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=esmpI7f_97E

Nina L. Kaufman, Esq. is an award-winning New York City attorney, edutainer and author. Under her Ask The Business Lawyer brand, she reaches thousands of entrepreneurs and small business owners with her legal services, professional speaking, information products, and LexAppeal weekly ezine. She also writes the Making It Legal blog.

Want to be an Entrepreneur Leadership Network contributor? Apply now to join.

Growing a Business

What Brands and Consumers Can Do to Build a Privacy-First Digital Future

As privacy concerns grow, consumers and businesses alike are rethinking how data is collected and used. A cultural shift toward transparency and accountability is paving the way for privacy-first solutions — and raising the stakes for companies that fail to adapt.

Thought Leaders

I've Worked with Over 400 Married Entrepreneurs — Here are 4 Lessons I've Learned

Entrepreneurs often face an intense balancing act: scaling their businesses while nurturing their relationships. In my years of coaching over 400 married business owners, I've observed the struggles that frequently arise in these partnerships.

Business Ideas

70 Small Business Ideas to Start in 2025

We put together a list of the best, most profitable small business ideas for entrepreneurs to pursue in 2025.

Marketing

We Are in a Mental Health Crisis — Here's How Leaders Can Create High Performance Workplaces

Marketing leaders should prioritize mental health by restructuring workflows, thoughtfully using technology and fostering a supportive culture to achieve sustainable success and innovation.

Business News

Amazon Intends to Spend Over $100 Billion on AI This Year. Here's How It Compares to Google, Meta, and Microsoft.

Amazon's forecasted spending in 2025 is 35% higher than 2024 and well above the $86 billion analysts expected.

Leadership

5 Mindset Tips for a Successful 2025

What makes the difference between a successful business and one that doesn't last? The mindset of the business owner plays a crucial role.