GOOD year, bad year? As 2013 draws to a close, we ask Fraser Nelson, editor of The Spectator magazine: ‘How has it been for you?’.
Briefly, what is it that you do?
I edit The Spectator.
Choose three words that sum up 2013 (so far), from a professional point of view.
We fight on.
In 2012, what was your biggest ambition for 2013, and to what extent did you achieve it?
To somehow thwart the plans to curb Britain’s free Press. I didn’t get the chance, sadly. The Politicians’ Charter just imploded.
How has 2013 (so far) been for you, personally?
Pretty good. The Spectator picked up top gong at the British Society of Magazine Editors awards recently, sales are rising and digital subscribers will soon overtake newsstand readers. The Spectator is – God willing – about to enter the most successful chapter of its 185-year history.
Any changes this year in technology, legislation, the economy, etc that have had a relatively significant impact on the business?
Shedloads. Podcast, twice-daily briefing emails and now Spectator video. We just need Lagavulin to sponsor it.
What looking forward to, in 2014 – personally and professionally?
Professionally, for The Spectator to hit an all-times sales high. To surpass that ‘Boris peak’. We’re so damn close. Personally, a ‘no’ vote and the saving of the Union.
