Traveling with the Prime Minister: A Unique Experience

This weekend, I had the opportunity to join Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on a visit to India as he attended a summit of G20 leaders. Traveling with the head of state is always a one-of-a-kind experience. In this article, we will explore four distinctive aspects of accompanying the prime minister on his journeys.

**1. The Prime Minister’s Private Jet**
The debate about whether the prime minister should have a private plane has raged for years. This issue gained prominence during Tony Blair’s tenure when the concept was humorously coined as “Blair Force One.” In 2006, plans were announced, but they were ultimately scrapped in 2008 during Gordon Brown’s time as prime minister. However, the debate is now settled, and the prime minister has access to his own aircraft. The official plane is an Airbus A321 adorned with the Union Jack on the tail fin and “United Kingdom” written on the side.

Traveling on this aircraft is a departure from the typical airport experience. Departures are from private terminals, boarding passes are often unnecessary, and passengers typically bring all their baggage onboard – a practice we will explain shortly.

**2. The In-Flight Experience**
One might expect a private jet to offer exceptional in-flight entertainment. The plane does indeed provide WiFi, allowing the prime minister and his team to stay connected and work efficiently. This connectivity is highly valued by the team. However, instead of individual screens with movies, music, and flight maps, there’s a unique practice known as a “huddle.” During a huddle, reporters surround the prime minister to ask questions. Prior to the flight, reporters collaborate to decide what questions to ask in what order. The conversations during the huddle are “on the record,” meaning reporters can quote the prime minister. However, the huddle is not recorded for television or radio. On-camera interviews with the prime minister usually take place later in the trip, with each broadcaster allotted a strictly defined amount of time.

**3. The Journalistic Privilege and Tension**
Interviewing a prime minister is a significant responsibility and privilege. Reporters work diligently to ask questions that represent the public’s interests. While being in close proximity to the prime minister and his team is advantageous for understanding their actions and motivations, there is an inherent journalistic tension. Journalists strive to remain detached, independent, and disinterested, which can be challenging when traveling in what might feel like a bubble with the prime minister.

**4. The Diplomatic Ritual Upon Landing**
When the prime minister’s plane lands in a foreign country, a diplomatic ritual unfolds. A welcoming delegation greets the plane, complete with red carpets and flags. The UK ambassador to the host country is present, and sometimes, there’s even a performance to mark the occasion. As the prime minister disembarks from the front of the plane, the rest of the entourage exits from the rear, boarding minibuses waiting on the tarmac. There’s no time to wait for baggage, which is why they bring it onboard. The motorcade quickly gets moving, with police outriders ensuring swift and unobstructed passage.

In conclusion, traveling with the prime minister is a unique experience, offering insights into the inner workings of leadership, diplomacy, and the challenges faced by journalists on the road. The journey provides a glimpse into the complex world of international politics, where every detail and decision is closely watched and scrutinized.