BBC Radio 4 LW

BBC Radio 4 FM

BBC Radio 4 is a radio channel that started transmitting on the 30th September 1967. It replaced BBC Home Service.

BBC Radio 4

Parting Shots: Series 1

Parting Shots: Series 1: Episode 5

Matthew Parris marks the passing of the valedictory despatch of the British ambassador

Matthew Parris marks the passing of the valedictory despatch, the traditional final telegram home in which British ambassadors could let their hair down and settle a few scores. The series features newly declassified Foreign Office files alongside interviews with the diplomats who wrote them. 


Matthew delves into the archives to find valedictories in which ambassadors heading into retirement poked fun at foreign nations where they had served.

Series 1

Parting Shots

Factual: History

Matthew Parris marks the passing of the valedictory despatch from British ambassadors

Matthew Parris marks the passing of the valedictory despatch, the traditional final telegram home in which British ambassadors could let their hair down and settle a few scores

Radio 4

Intelligent speech, the most insightful journalism, the wittiest comedy, the most fascinating features and the most compelling drama and readings anywhere in UK radio.

Documentaries

Factual: Politics

Episode 5

BBC Radio 4 - Parting Shots, Series 1, Episode 5

Matthew Parris on valedictories which embarrassed ministers.

Valedictories which embarrassed ministers. Featuring an interview with Sir Ivor Roberts, whose 2006 valedictory led to the Foreign Office banning their circulation.

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Parting Shots

Series 1

Episode 5

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