Richmond intern meets Al Gore

24/03/2007

Richmond intern meets Al Gore

Chloe Neilson, Conservative Party Headquarters,
Economic Competitiveness Policy Group

I had one of the most interesting experiences of my life today! The Conservatives have been abuzz for the past week that Al Gore was coming to talk to David Cameron and the Front Bench about climate change. I was told the meeting would take place next to my desk in a conference room with glass walls. I was excited that I would be able to watch them as I sat in my desk, but then I became even MORE amazed when Michael, my supervisor, told me that we were to take part in the meeting (which aside from the Front Bench was only about 20 other people!)

During the dialogue, I realized that I was watching something truly significant, especially because Gore continued to praise the British for fighting for something difficult, but important. The British are currently at the forefront of this cause, and it is their work that will hopefully inspire more countries to change. Therefore the decisions, issues, questions, choices, and overall discussion in this meeting are truly historical and potentially world-changing.

The cherry on top of the sundae was that I had the chance to personally meet him after the meeting! He came across the rooms shaking hands, and I was towards the end, but waited so that I had the opportunity. When I said, “It’s a pleasure to meet you!” he noticed I was American (although hesitated in the assumption to check if I were actually Canadian), and then asked me how I happened to be in the UK. We chatted about my home town of San Francisco and his previous campaign. Then, he wished me luck and he and David Cameron went on their way. It was truly amazing and I really love my job!

Link to this page: http://www.richmond.ac.uk/n/224.aspx