10 - Alumni Spotlight: Daniel Zeichner You’ve been a vocal advocate on key issues, such as Brexit and environmental policy. How do you balance staying true to your principles while navigating the complexities of party politics? Brexit raised deeply complex issues, particularly here in Cambridge, where strong pro-European sentiment needed a voice. There have to be compromises in politics and, as a representative, it isn’t all about one’s own personal view – you have to be mindful of the interests and views of those you represent. In 2017, you resigned as a Shadow Minister to vote in favour of single market membership. How difficult was it to take that stand, and what do you think it says about your approach to politics? Resigning as a Shadow Minister in 2017 to vote for single market membership was, indeed, a difficult decision, but it felt like the only honest one. Representing Cambridge – a city that overwhelmingly values international cooperation, I felt it was my duty to stand up for what my constituents and I believed in. But I had really enjoyed the shadow transport brief, so it wasn’t without cost. In your 1975 school magazine article The Need for Evolution, you championed public schools like Trinity as vital for educational excellence and social diversity. Yet on 8th October, as a Labour MP,
you voted to impose VAT on independent school fees and opposed criticism of this decision. What changed? Re-reading the article, I think it was a bit more critical than you suggest! However, I’m older and wiser now, and over the years my views have evolved as I’ve seen the broader picture of our education system. Today, I believe that we need to prioritise making high-quality education accessible to everyone, not just those who can afford private schooling. Imposing VAT on independent school fees is one way to ensure that we can invest more in our state schools, which serve the vast majority of students. It’s not about diminishing the value of independent schools, but about creating a fairer system where every child has the opportunity to succeed, regardless of background. Looking back on your journey, what would you tell your younger self when you were just starting out at Trinity or Cambridge? Looking back, I would encourage my younger self to trust in the power of persistence. Politics, like many things in life, is about longterm commitment and building relationships over time, rather than expecting quick wins. I would also tell my younger self to be more confident and not be afraid to take risks – I was too timid. At Trinity and Cambridge, I was surrounded by incredibly bright people, and it was easy to feel like I had to have all the answers. But what I’ve learned over the years is that it’s okay not to know everything at the start, and sometimes the most important thing is to stay curious and openminded. What advice would you
give to young people today who are considering a career in politics, particularly in such a rapidly changing political landscape? Do it! I have the best job in the world, in my view. I meet the most interesting people every day and, working with others, I have the opportunity to really make a difference. It took me 20 years and five general elections to finally get to Westminster, so it isn’t always a quick or easy path, but it is quite a prize. Stay true to your values, but also be prepared to adapt and listen. Politics is always evolving, especially in today’s fast-changing world, and it’s important to understand the issues people are facing at grassroots level. The most effective politicians are those who stay grounded in their principles, but who also remain flexible enough to respond to new challenges and ideas. And democracy matters! Get involved early, whether through activism, volunteering or working for a cause you care about. The experience and connections you build will be invaluable. Finally, remember that politics is about service. It’s about helping people, not seeking power for its own sake. If you keep that focus, it will help you navigate the complexities and pressures of political life.