VIDEO Theresa May’s ‘extraordinary’ conference speech - BBC Newsnight

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Theresa May's 'extraordinary' conference speech - BBC Newsnight In a noteworthy moment from 2017, then-Prime Minister Theresa May delivered a speech at the Conservative Party Conference that simultaneously attempted to revive her premiership and became a spectacle of political blunders. This was highlighted in a BBC Newsnight report that captured the chaotic essence of the event. As May began her address, she sought to connect with her audience by reflecting on her political journey and addressing the disappointing election outcome. She candidly apologized, admitting, "We did not get the victory we wanted... I hold my hands up for that. I take responsibility. I led the campaign and I am sorry." This moment was significant as it displayed a rare moment of vulnerability from a leader often seen as stoic. While May aimed to strike a chord with the party, the speech quickly descended into an unforeseen debacle. A prankster disrupted her presentation by handing over a fake P45—a form indicating employment termination—adding an extra layer of chaos to an already tenuous situation. Her reaction and subsequent attempt at humor amidst the disruption showcased her efforts to regain control, stating she was about to talk about someone she would have liked to give a P45 to: her political rival, Jeremy Corbyn. Unfortunately, May's troubles didn't end there. She battled a persistent coughing fit, which was met with both concern and encouragement from the audience. Yet, as if things couldn’t get worse, the letters of her conference slogan partially fell off the backdrop during her speech, serving as a metaphor for her crumbling authority at the time. Despite these challenges, some observers noted that her ability to navigate through the mishaps demonstrated a degree of resilience. Others, however, were less warm in their evaluation, suggesting her leadership was merely "adequate." This sentiment underscored the growing dissatisfaction within her party and foreshadowed the turbulence that lay ahead. The blend of humor, awkwardness, and political gravity in May's conference speech remains a potent reminder of the unpredictable nature of political life. As we reflect on these events today, it’s vital to consider how leaders can prepare for both the expected and unexpected on such public stages. Engagement Call: What did you think of Theresa May's response to the adversities she faced during her speech? Have you witnessed similar situations in political speeches before? Feel free to share your thoughts and experiences!