Competition Introduction

The Alistair Darling Internship Award offers an exceptional opportunity for young people to gain practical experience in the world of public service, policy-making, and political communication. Inspired by Alistair Darling’s dedication to pragmatism, open discourse, and inclusion, this award aims to identify and nurture the next generation of leaders committed to honest and effective public duty. Applicants are invited to reflect on the core principles that guided his career through a written submission focused on contemporary political and societal challenges.

About Alistair Darling (1953–2023)

Alistair Darling dedicated his life to public service. Born and educated in Scotland, he trained as a lawyer before being elected Labour MP for Edinburgh Central in 1987. Over nearly three decades in Parliament, he served as Secretary of State for Scotland (1997–1998), Secretary of State for Work and Pensions (1998–2002), Secretary of State for Transport (2002–2006), Secretary of State for Trade and Industry (2006–2007), and finally as Chancellor of the Exchequer (2007–2010) during the global financial crisis.

In one of the most turbulent economic periods in modern history, Darling’s steady leadership helped guide the UK through uncertainty. Admired across party lines for his calm authority, fairness, and integrity, he became a figure of stability at a time when it was most needed.

Darling also played a key role in the 2014 Scottish independence referendum, where he argued passionately for an evidence-based debate. He believed politics should serve people rather than parties, and that cooperation across differences was essential for progress.

This award honours his belief in honesty, competence, and public duty as the cornerstones of good government.

General Guidance

Students at participating schools must submit their essays to their class teachers. Essay topics should be chosen from the themes below. Remember to include a response to the reflective question as part of your submission, and make sure submissions are clearly labelled with your name, class and school.

Essay rules:

• Strict limit of 1,000 words, not including citations (please specify word count).
• Present a clear argument or line of thought.
• Include specific examples or case studies (e.g., government decisions, political campaigns, or social trends).
• Conclude with a reasoned judgment.

Tasks

Reflective Question (Maximum 500 words)

Explain how you believe undertaking the Alistair Darling Internship would benefit your personal development and your commitment to public life.

Essay Questions (Select and answer only one)

Theme 1: Leadership in Times of Crisis

What qualities make an effective political leader in times of national or global crisis? Discuss with reference to examples from recent UK or Scottish politics.

Theme 2: Integrity and Public Service

Is honesty still an important quality in politics and, if so, why? Discuss with reference to examples from recent UK or Scottish politics.

Theme 3: Scotland’s Future and Cooperation

In an age of division, how important is cooperation across political and national boundaries? Discuss with reference to recent examples of collaboration or conflict in Scottish, UK or international politics.

Theme 4: Economics and Society

Choose a recent economic challenge, such as rising living costs, inflation, or the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. What does this challenge teach us about responsibility, leadership, and fairness?

Next Steps

A shortlist of successful applicants will be invited to a final round interview with the award panel. As part of this final stage, candidates will be asked to give a short presentation (2–3 minutes) on the topic and key arguments of their essay, followed by a Q&A session.