Veteran Benn spins politics and rap

Tony Benn is known for his outspoken views

Veteran politician Tony Benn has spoken about the difference between rap and political spin while discussing how his speeches ended up on a rap album.

The often controversial and emotion-filled speeches of the former Labour MP have been remixed for the rap generation by music producer Charles Bailey.

Mr Benn, 78, told BBC One's Breakfast: "The difference between rap and spin is that in spin you change what you believe in to win power, but in rap you embellish what you really want to say with music to get an audience."

He joked that most of the speeches had never been heard before because nobody wanted broadcast to them when they were first delivered.

Mr Bailey said he was inspired to give the speeches a fresh sound after hearing Mr Benn speak at the massive anti-Iraq war rally in London's Hyde Park.

The producer compared the impact of Mr Benn's speech to that of Bob Marley and Nelson Mandela in making a connection with young people, saying more "honesty and integrity" was needed in politicians.

The outspoken Mr Benn, who retired as an MP in 2001, admitted there was usually little crossover between music and politics.

Educational

But he said he did not there was a lack of interest in politics.

"I do not think people are apathetic, I think they're angry that no-one listens and they do not believe what they are being told and that is a threat to democracy, that's not apathy."

Mr Bailey said he was convinced that the album, which will be released in late August, would be a commercial success with great educational potential.

"I have been inundated with e-mails from teachers who want to use the album to get pupils more interested in politics," he said.

"The educational aspect is very interesting - it's a fun and interesting project, but it is also very educational."