Analysis - Interview between Jeremy Paxton & Chloe Smith

Jeremy Paxton displayed a harsh reaction to the challenges facing the changes to the
Chancellors policy on fuel duty during his memorable interview on Newsnight and encounter
with Treasury minister Chloe Smith. The combination of hard news and somewhat incompetent
behaviour was reflected during the interview there is a clear understanding of both characters
views and status within the interview. Jeremy was definitely the dominant role due to his
belittling questioning towards Chloe.
More so, his political views were reflected vigorously bkh
The environment of the interview is based in a office layout which would indicate the type of
interview being conducted however, there are many aspects of the setting that could also
support that idea. Within the background of the setting is a large image of George Osborne, the
Chancellor of Exchequer, carrying a Red briefcase - from past interventions, we know that the
red briefcase indicates that there will be change within budget. Symbolism for money and is an
example of iconography. Further indication of subject matter being discussed would be the U
turn sign situated on the left-side to the display wall. The clear image could perhaps indicate a
change in policy which we understand later, the tax on fuel was postponed which was
scheduled to be set on that date. The purpose of the background images contribute to the idea
that the matter is about change and money.

The consistent use of formal language is prominent throughout the interview which also
indicates the style of news presented - hard news. Jeremy immediately begins to create an
impression of Chloe Smith by introducing her as Chloe Smith the Treasury Minister is with us
today this gives an impression upon the audience that she is professional, because of her role
in Government and has many responsibilities, in particular, on taxes on fuel. Specifically, he
introduces Chloe Smith with direct eye-contact towards the camera whilst turning his body then
proceeding to turn back to her to begin with the interview.
The body language used is stiff in nature and indicates that this could possible be the only time
he directs the audience before giving all his attention to Chloe Smith. The interview begins with
a direct question asked by Jeremy Paxman When were you told of this change of plan? One of
many examples of repetitive behaviour from Paxman however, this portrays Jeremys behaviour
of being assertive and combative. More so, it allows the audience to understand the subject of
discussion and gives an impression that Paxman is speaking on behalf of the entire nation due
to the directness of the question straight-away.
1. George Osborne (chancellor of the excheque, man in charge of the UK budget), red briefcase
- iconography for the budget

2 U turn sign - perhaps a change in idea i.e. the government have post a tax on cards that was
due that day,
EXPLAIN:
Purpose:
Research - Paxman wants to know why the tax has been postpone, spent lots of money on
making it implemented.
Impact - audience instantly understand topic, awareness raised.