The show with all the answers

We look at how debate programme Question Time has been putting politicians in the hotseat for 40 years

THERE have been four hosts and 1,500 different panel guests since the first episode of Question Time was broadcast in 1979. Tony Blair, David Cameron, Sir Vince Cable, Diane Abbott, Theresa May and Boris Johnson have all appeared on the BBC topical debate show, as well as non-politicians such as comedian Jo Brand and Great British Bake Off judge Prue Leith. Veteran MP Ken Clarke holds the record for the most appearances, with 59 outings as a panellist.

The formidable Sir Robin Day first presented the 60-minute programme on BBC1 and his relentless grilling of politicians in the studio led to some accusing him of being rude to MPs.

He once said: “Television thrives on unreason and unreason thrives on television. It strikes at the emotions rather than the intellect.”

Peter Sissons, who sadly died this week, took over presenting duties in 1989 and was followed by David Dimbleby who hosted 811 episodes of Question Time over 25 years.

He received a standing ovation from t the studio audience for his final show last year. David Dimbleby also famously told one audience member to leave the studio after repeatedly heckling the panel throughout the programme.

Current host Fiona Bruce says: “My number one moment on Question Time has to be when Eric Pickles, during the furore over MPs’ expenses back in 2009, lamented about having to turn up for work on time, to which David Dimbleby responded ‘like a job, in other words?’”

One of the most touching moments in the show’s history came 14 years ago when nervous-looking studio audience member Alan Jordan was introduced by presenter David Dimbleby, but his question was not for any of the panel. “It’s for the lady on my right,” said Mr Jordan as he turned to Sonia Temple, his girlfriend of four years. “Will you marry me?” She said yes in the show’s first – and so far – only engagement.

Televsion strikes at the emotions rather than the intellect

Question Time presenter Sir Robin Day

Sir Robin Day (third left) presenting Question Time in 1983 with (l-r) Michael Heseltine, Ann Leslie, MIchael Foot and David Steel. David Dimbleby, D inset left, hosted 811 episodes Then Prime Minister Tony Blair in the hotseat in 2000 Audience member Alan Jordan proposes