Despite only being founded in 2022, the President of Queens’ Politics, Michael Watts, is confident that his College’s PolSoc is the best that Cambridge has to offer. Having hosted speakers in the past year such as Lord Neil Kinnock, Baroness Gisela Stuart and Sir Tony Brenton, Michael gives us an inside scoop on the responsibilities of running Queens’ Politics.

Name: Michael Watts

DOB: April 2003

College: Queens’

Subject: History and Politics

Hometown: Bournemouth, Dorset

Nationality: British

Favourite politician: Ronald Reagan

Why did you get involved in Queens’ Politics?

Well, I’ve a passion for politics, and I was really keen to help bring some top speakers to my college. I think college societies are a nice, friendlier and more personal way of getting involved in student life, especially when it comes to politics.

“For many others, it is the genuine pursuit of positive change and a commitment to serve others”

What makes Queens’ Politics better than other politics societies in Cambridge?

We had Neil Kinnock last year.

Who has been your favourite guest and why?

Although Neil Kinnock was immense, Baroness Gisela Stuart was probably my favourite last year. She gave a very interesting talk, was very lovely and very entertaining and engaging to talk to at dinner.

What does your audience learn from your talks?

Anything really, from insights into today’s politics and/or the politics of the past, to more intellectual and philosophical topics.

What is politics?

For many today, it is sadly the cynical, self-interested pursuit of power, generally solely for personal gain. I do believe though that for many others, it is the genuine pursuit of positive change and a commitment to serve others.

What is the worst part of the job?

Booking college rooms and securing permissions.

“I’m too bloody minded to be affiliated to ... any political party or ideological group”

CULC, CULA or CUCA?

None of them – I’m too bloody minded to be affiliated to any of them or any political party or ideological group.

Biggest irrational fear?

Large insects.

If that TikToker asked you what song you’re listening to on King’s Parade, what answer do you have prepared?

‘Rockin’ All Over The World’ by Status Quo, a) because it’s the best song in the world and b) because I doubt they’ve ever heard of it.

Introvert or extrovert?

Extrovert.

Mash/Revs/Lola’s/Vinyl?

Whilst I’ve only experienced two of them, I should imagine they’re all as dreadful and horrendous to spend time in as one another.

Where will you be found on a Wednesday night?

Normally in my room watching telly.

Gardies or Van of Life?

Van of Life.

What did you want to be when you grew up?

A presenter on Top Gear.

What do you want to do now?

Present Top Gear.

College formal with three people (dead or alive) – who are you choosing?

Karl Marx, Margaret Thatcher and Jeremy Clarkson – that would be an explosive and (probably) entertaining conversation.

And finally, Varsity or The T*b?

A friend of mine used to edit the latter, so I shall have to remain studiously neutral.