Peter Hennessy to deliver valedictory lecture at QMUL

Professor Peter Hennessy, renowned historian, journalist and academic, will deliver his valedictory lecture to a public audience at Queen Mary University of London on 7 October. Professor Hennessy will explore the twin themes of Establishment and Meritocracy, subjects which have fascinated him since he first read Anthony Sampson's Anatomies of Britain and Michael Young's the Rise of the Meritocracy. Peter is Attlee Professor of Contemporary British History at QMUL. Drawing on more than two decades' experience of journalism and public affairs, he was instrumental in the development of QMUL as a centre for excellence in the study of modern British history. Speaking in advance of the event, Professor Miri Rubin , Head of the School of History at Queen Mary University of London said: "Peter is a colossus of political thought, an inspiring teacher and a wonderful colleague. His valedictory address provides an opportunity to reflect not just upon his exemplary career as a historian and a writer, but also on his outstanding contribution as an educator, a leader and trusted mentor at this university." Before joining QMUL, Peter was a journalist for 20 years, including as a leader writer and Whitehall correspondent with the Times, and as lobby correspondent for the Financial Times. He wrote a regular column for the Independent and was a frequent presenter of the BBC Radio 4 Analysis programme.