Just who are the most powerful women in Britain today? Madeleine Reiss profiles Anji Hunter
Known variously as 'the other woman in Tony Blair's life,' 'the gatekeeper' or 'the comfort blanket,' Anji Hunter was the Prime Minister's left-hand woman for many years. Her recent defection in November 2001 to BP as their new director of communications has no doubt left the PM bereft.
As is often the case amongst powerful women, her success has been conducted against a background of gossip and the kind of sniping that few men in her position have ever had to endure. The media have attempted to portray her close relationship with Tony Blair as one that must inevitably have a sexual component, and have leapt with glee upon the fact that Cherie Blair is said to dislike her. Her considerable achievements have frequently been brushed aside in favour of such disparaging comments as 'she chooses Tony's ties.'
Until her departure at the beginning of November, Anji Hunter was the Director of Political and Government Relations, a role that ensured that she was the most influential non-elected person in Downing Street. Tall, blond and striking, Ms Hunter never had any compunction about using her glamorous image to her advantage. William Hague's former aide Amanda Platell has been quoted as saying that she is the kind of woman 'who can charm furniture.' Business men, editors, celebrities, trade unionists and cabinet ministers have all been seduced by her particular brand of allure. Her ability to work a room to Mr Blair's advantage is legendary.
In addition to her unashamed schmoozing, Ms Hunter is said to have been a ruthless operator who controlled access to the prime minister with an iron fist. She is also said to have a ferocious temper. Despite her charm she could strike fear into ministers and was adept at manipulation, famously keeping the peace between Tony Blair and Gordon Brown when the latter's ambitions for the leadership became too evident. She was also part of the group who decided the fate of aspiring politicians.
Over the page: her relationship with Tony Blair
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