Martin Lewis has categorically ruled out a career in politics, stating he would rather undergo a painful experience than enter the political arena. The Money Saving Expert, set to receive the BAFTA TV Special Award on May 10, made the comments during an interview with BAFTA CEO Jane Millichip.
No Interest in Politics
When asked if any political parties had approached him, Lewis revealed that new parties had occasionally sought him as a leader. However, his response was unequivocal: 'I would prefer to wire my nipples to electrodes, not in a pleasant way, than go into politics. I’m not sure I can be any clearer. So it’s not going to happen.'
Apolitical but Political Work
Lewis emphasized that his work is 'resolutely a-party-political' yet 'incredibly political.' He explained, 'I don’t want to confuse everyone. A lot of the work I do, the campaign work, is innately political, but it’s a-party-political. One of the reasons I think I managed to retain the connection with people is that it’s no fear and no favour.'
He added that he focuses on governing parties regardless of their affiliation, criticizing or commending them based on their actions. 'I will criticise any government of any party, but I will also commend any government of any party,' he said.
Council Tax Campaign Success
Lewis highlighted his biggest win this year: a campaign on council tax debt collection. Every year, 1.7 million people face bailiffs within three months of missing a payment, and councils can demand full payment within three weeks. Two years ago, his charity met Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner, who supported the cause. Following a government consultation, the deadline was extended to 63 days, providing a 'breathing space' for people to sort their finances. Lewis acknowledged it was a hard-fought battle lasting 34 years.
He stressed the importance of thanking politicians when they act on requests: 'If you don’t say thank you when they do the stuff you’ve asked for, they’re not going to do it again.' He remains apolitical to maintain credibility: 'I’m not a member of any party. I’m not interested in any of that type of stuff. So thank you, but I’ll stay out.'
Pressure of Being a Trusted Voice
Lewis admitted the responsibility of being a trusted financial advisor weighs heavily on him. 'Only constantly. My anxiety levels are always high,' he said, recalling when people called him 'a god' and he couldn't leave the house. He has since learned to cope but warns against blindly following his advice: 'The worst thing people say to me is, “Oh, I’m not sure I understand it, but I always do what you say.” You have to understand it because what I say is specified for different individuals.'
Lewis ensures his guidance includes caveats about risks, but he still feels the pressure: 'I know so many of those people say to me, “I just do it, because you say I do it,” and I’m sitting there going, “Did I go too soon?”'
BAFTA TV Special Award
The BAFTA TV Special Award recognizes Lewis's impact on the British public through his TV show The Martin Lewis Money Show Live and appearances on ITV's Good Morning Britain and This Morning. Previous recipients include ITV for Mr Bates vs The Post Office, Lorraine Kelly, David Olusoga, Horrible Histories, Shonda Rhimes, and This Morning.
The BAFTA TV Awards ceremony is scheduled for Sunday, May 10.
