I‘m watching a fantastic program on Channel 4. Tony Benn, the left-wing politician, interviews four of Britain’s top TV and radio journalists.

He talks to Jon Humphrys about interrupting interviewees. “I do sometimes get a bit irritated, and a little bit annoyed, and then, if I interrupt unfairly, and I do sometimes, I overdo it sometimes, I am aware of that and cross with myself,” says Humphrys. All four interviewees are convinced that uninterrupted politicians will spin and dodge and not really give any new information.

“A crucial role of anyone doing my job is to expose and report and reveal what people in power are doing,” explained Nick Robinson, in answer to a question about who should have access to the media.

Benn asked all the interviewees about whether local politicians or union leaders get enough air time. The general response was that with limited air time, interviewers naturally go to the organ grinder not the monkey. “The internet has democratised the media,” added Robinson in response to Benn’s question about whether people with radical ideas have access to the media.

What is the mission of journalists? “Sometimes it’s a question of holding to account, sometimes it’s a question of finding out what makes people tick,” says Jeremy Paxman. “Shine a light,” said Jon Snow.

I’m writing this in real time as I watch the programme. I don’t want to form instant judgements for the sake of it. Overall, I think the interviewers - who are really the top guns in the UK - come over pretty well and have a good understanding of their profession and their role in society. Benn asks challenging questions and I really enjoyed and welcomed the airing of the issues.

I’d love to find a transcript but Benn trailed the programme in an article in the Guardian.

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