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Questions and Answers
What was the headline of the paper that portrayed the Labour leader negatively?
According to Rupert Murdoch, what did he believe about the power of the Sun newspaper?
What did the Sun claim about its readership during elections?
What did Ms. Perrior say about the value of an endorsement from the Sun?
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In which year did the Sun endorse Tony Blair?
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What can be inferred about the Sun's influence on political leaders?
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What was a notable aspect of the Sun's coverage strategy prior to elections?
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What percentage was believed to be the Sun's daily print readership?
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What aspect of the Sun's strategy is highlighted in their 'Never Mind The Ballots: Election Showdown'?
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What reason was given for why the Sun is still considered significant in elections?
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Study Notes
The Sun's Influence on British Elections
- The Sun newspaper's endorsement of a political party is still considered significant and influential, despite its declining print readership.
- The Sun's 1992 eve-of-poll headline "If Kinnock wins today will the last person to leave Britain turn out the lights" is believed by some to have swung the election in favor of the Conservatives.
- The Sun claims that its readers are "at the heart of British elections" and that leaders of all parties are eager to hear their views.
- The Sun's owner, Rupert Murdoch, claims that the newspaper does not have the power to influence elections, and that it simply reflects public opinion.
- The Sun has launched a "live grilling" of candidates before the general election, to be hosted by Harry Cole and broadcast on its website, YouTube and social channels.
- The Sun has a history of backing winning political parties; in 1997 it endorsed Tony Blair, who went on to win a landslide victory.
- In 1997, Rupert Murdoch informed The Sun's editorial team that he had detected "a wind of change" and that they would be switching their support to the Labour Party.
- Alastair Campbell, Tony Blair's former spin-doctor, believes that The Sun will back the winning party in the upcoming election, because they want "to be on the side of winners".
- Campbell suggests that right-wing newspapers may face pressure from their readers to endorse the Conservatives, potentially alienating their readership.
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Description
Explore the significant impact of The Sun newspaper on British elections through its endorsements and public engagements. This quiz delves into historical moments, key headlines, and the claims of its owner regarding media influence in politics. Test your knowledge of how media shapes electoral outcomes in the UK.
