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Peter Hain, the Northern Ireland Secretary, accused the impressionist Rory Bremner of spreading cynicism about politics.
Over the weekend Bremner released the transcript of a telephone call in 2005 in which he tricked Margaret Beckett, now the Foreign Secretary, into making indiscreet comments about colleagues by pretending to be Gordon Brown, the Chancellor. Mr Hain rounded on Bremner not for the embarrassing duping of Ms Beckett but because the comedian accused him of betraying his principles. “I enjoy the impressions . . . But I do think you should stop spreading cynicism and embitterment about politicians,” Mr Hain told Sunday AM on BBC One.
Bremner had earlier said: “I want to know who’s impersonating Peter Hain? Because I remember you as a left-wing, ideological figure.”

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I agree with Mr Hain "spreading cynicism and embitterment about politicians" is the only thing that labout do well. To have this role taken away from them would render them utterly useless.
Gareth, Auckland, New Zealand
Comedians, or journalists, do not spread cynicism and embitterment about politicians, politicians do.
Every time I listen to a politician I cringe at the blatent lies and misinformation that they are spouting.
When politicians start treating the people of this country with honesty and respect, then they will earn the respect they once had.
'Till then I shall continue to laugh at Rory's antics.
Peter Pheasant, Newbury, UK/Berkshire
I agree with Mr Hain "spreading cynicism and embitterment about politicians" is the only thing that labout do well. To have this role taken away from them would render them utter useless.
Gareth, Auckland, New Zealand
It is not necessary to spread cynicism about politicians. Their own activities constantly steer the electorate's perception in that direction.
Fernando Honwana, Kingston, UK
It is very unfair of Rory Bremner to suggest Peter Hain is betraying his principles.
Mr Hain is a man of many principles ; if you don't like his present ones he has plenty more from which you may choose
Ronnie Ince, Stone, Staffordshire