BBC Journalist Recounts Uncomfortable Encounters with Politicians

Laura Kuenssberg, the BBC's former political editor, has shared accounts of inappropriate behavior she experienced from politicians during her career, as detailed in her new book, "Pay Attention."

One notable incident involved a government minister who, according to Kuenssberg, appeared to invite her to join him and his partner for a threesome. The journalist recounted that she went to the minister's hotel room for a planned meeting, only to find him on a bed with his partner present and his shirt unbuttoned. Kuenssberg stated that she recognized the situation as uncomfortable and promptly left.

When asked if the couple were seeking a threesome, Kuenssberg expressed uncertainty but acknowledged the awkwardness of the situation. "Well, maybe they were and maybe they weren't," she said, as quoted in The Times. "As I say, maybe they weren't and I got it completely wrong. It was very uncomfortable."

Kuenssberg also described other unwelcome advances from politicians. In one instance, a married government minister she met for coffee to discuss politics invited her to the theater and engaged in what she termed 'a little grope.' She ceased contact with this individual.

Another former minister habitually greeted her with a 'weird' kiss on the head, and a peer sent her a 'really creepy text' complimenting her clothing on television. Kuenssberg stopped responding to the peer.

Kuenssberg expressed concern for young journalists and employees starting in the political field, stating, "People do things. And human behaviour is a complicated thing and sometimes people behave badly." She added, "There is still a concern in Westminster that particularly young people starting out are sometimes very vulnerable."

The book also touches upon the abuse Kuenssberg has faced, particularly during her tenure covering Brexit. The online harassment she received was so severe that she stopped checking her social media. At times, security concerns led the BBC to provide bodyguards, and she once had to leave a Jeremy Corbyn campaign event quickly after being confronted by a group of men.

Beyond personal encounters, Kuenssberg's book explores the current state of politics, including her interviews with Prime Ministers Boris Johnson and Sir Keir Starmer, and the increasing polarization and fragmentation within the political landscape. She dedicates two chapters to Nigel Farage, describing him as 'incredibly gifted' but also placing him in a 'different category' of politicians.

Kuenssberg, who was born in Italy and raised in Glasgow, has been married to management consultant James Kelly since 2017. Her private life, however, remains largely out of the public eye, a decision understandable given the safety concerns associated with her high-profile career.

Having been with the BBC for over two decades, Kuenssberg handed over the role of political editor to Chris Mason and now hosts the Sunday interview program "Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg." She is expected to potentially host the next General Election coverage for the BBC.