Tuesday, August 16, 2011

South Wales Chip Crisis



And while we’re on the subject of Gwyn Thomas here he is being interviewed by Alan Whicker about the South Wales Chip Crisis. This short TV item from the 1960s examines the consequences of a potato shortage on the chip-loving Welsh. With tongue planted firmly in cheek Thomas explains that, amongst other things, the Welsh picked up their knowledge of culture and politics from reading the newspapers which enveloped their chips. I think it is quite an amusing piece but you could argue that Thomas is playing the professional Welshman (something he was occasionally accused of) and perpetuating stereotypes for the amusement of a largely English audience. What do you think?