I've probably done around 100 media interviews about settled status. Unlike some commentators on the topic, I am not influenced by political party lines, I read legislation & I actually assist migrants applying for status so I see the reality. Some personal observations...
The numbers frame is unhelpful. Don't ask me "How many applied so far?", the Government line already praised that earlier. Big numbers are so unhelpful without context and in most interviews, there is little time to explain this *really crucial* context that will affect people.
It is extremely difficult to simplify any criticism. Saying "settled status is amazing" or "we value the contributions of blah blah" takes less than 10 seconds and is a simple message. Putting any decent analysis in a 10-second soundbite is hard and can switch off audiences.
If I shorten things too much, this often means what I say is not entirely correct. Key example: the EU Settlement Scheme is for "EEA citizens and non-EU family members", not only "EU citizens". The longer version can actually help inform non-EU people who need to apply.
When I debate a politician or a 'professional commentator', they are likely to have around 30 years more experience than me, and 30 years more experience of avoiding questions and bridging to their key, wishful thinking or a rather dishonest message on settled status.
Some media formats are better than others to discuss complex situations &processes, like the EU Settlement Scheme. But the message of why it is so wonderful is always simpler, more catchy, easier to explain within media formats than an informed criticism of why it's not so great.
It also depends whom you pitch your messages to. For me, I want as many citizens out there to be informed about what this actually is & what they have to do. Of course, I want the system to change, but if I wanted to speak to politicians I'd go to Westminster, not the TV.
However, I observed that those praising the EU Settlement Scheme almost exclusively pitch their messages to the British public, who are or can become some of their voters. The message is 'look how good we are with your friends, neighbours blah blah' instead of being honest.
There is also very little meaningful debate on this. You'd usually have a report with 20 seconds of my criticism & 1, 2, 3 vox pops/case studies, preceded or followed by 5 mins of Govt rep promoting "it's all fine line". Would much prefer to put my questions directly to them.
I'm very grateful to all the media who report on this and I had many great conversations with a lot of journalists and producers. But after reflecting on this, I am wondering if there are better formats to discuss complex issues such as EUSS or immigration more broadly.
