Former politician Ed gets ‘ballsy’ with journalists for Cancer Research UK

Former shadow chancellor Ed Balls turned the tables and put journalists in the hot seat today helping to raise over £80,000 for Cancer Research UK’s life-saving research.

BBC Today Programme’s Mishal Husain was grilled by the former Labour politician, while Justice Secretary and Lord Chancellor Liz Truss took on ITV’s News at Ten presenter Tom Bradby in front of a live audience at BAFTA 195 Piccadilly, London, for Cancer Research UK’s annual Turn the Tables event.

The event, hosted by broadcaster Tania Bryer and BBC Diplomatic Editor James Landale, has seen the likes of Jeremy Paxman, Alastair Campbell, Piers Morgan, David Frost and William Hague take to the stage in recent years. Guests at the event included Evan Davis, Donna Air and Tamara Beckwith.

After an intense interview with Mishal, Ed lightened the atmosphere by showcasing some of his finest Strictly Come Dancing moves, treating the journalist and guests to an impromptu dance lesson.

Ed Balls, Turn the Tables interrogator, said: “I couldn’t turn down an opportunity to give journalists a taste of their own medicine and I’m sure Mishal and Tom will agree that switching roles was actually a lot of fun.

“We’ve had a good laugh turning the tables and I’ve certainly picked up a few tips but most importantly we’ve helped raise funds for Cancer Research UK’s vital work to beat cancer sooner.”