The New Prime Minster

Here in Britain, the second most common surname is Brown. There are millions of Browns. It is a designation that reeks of anonymity. Perhaps you have never heard of Gordon Brown? Don't worry. He's about to become our new Prime Minister, but we are still not yet clear exactly what he stands for.

Gordon Brown has followed the fortunes of Tony Blair, but always in the shadows as Treasury Secretary. He never liked the limelight. For him policy and debate was always more important.

In a nation that prefers to remember its flamboyant politicians – Winston Churchill, Margaret Thatcher, Tony Blair -- Mr. Brown looks somewhat out of place. He's fifty six. Married late, but happily. Devoted to his two sons - the youngest born last year with cystic fibrosis. Their only daughter lived for just 10 days. It hit him hard. He loves classical music. But he couldn't listen to a single symphony for twelve months after she died.

These are among the few facts that offer clues to his humanity. Otherwise Gordon Brown seems to have few other interests beyond politics. Even at the age of twelve he was actively involved campaigning in Scotland. He was running the Scottish Labour Party in his twenties.

He is, of course, a proud Scot. Born there, raised there, representing the place still and keeping a Scottish home. His father was a Church Minister. The son is, instinctively, serious, stubborn, and slightly left wing.

For you in America, that means no real change. Gordon Brown will work with George Bush even if his heart would prefer a Democrat in the White House. He used to bite his nails. The lining of his favorite overcoat was held together with adhesive tape. But now he sports 2000 dollar suits from the same tailor who dresses David Beckham and Tom Cruise.

Tony Blair may be a hard act to follow. But Gordon Brown is already changing the scruffy habits of his own lifetime to win the part.
By Ed Boyle