XTC - Making Plans for Nigel

[Sweet G]

What, if any, is the story behind this song?

[goldenboy]

i used to have a biography of the band but seem to have mislaid it. i'm from swindon and know that plesseys was a firm that made steel in the town, and this may be why nigels got a future in british steel, as they used to be a major employer in the town. if i locate my xtc book, i'll have a look and give you more info.

[DiscoStu]

I don't know the details of the story, but I read many years back that the Nigel of the song was actually Nigel Lawson, the ex-chancellor of the exchequer. Does that ring any bells?

[goldenboy]

try here http://www.xtcidearecords.co.uk/ , theres all sorts of xtc stuff

[Sweet G]

Hi guys, still none the wiser. Goldenboy that is a good site but doesnt contain any story behind the song.

Stu, I thought the song was about Nigel Lawson but I am unconvinced. The song was released in 1979 and Lawson didnt reach any significant government position until 1981 when he became Energy Secretary. He bacame Chancellor in 1983. In 1979 he held a junior post at the Treasury, so if the song is about him I would especially like to know why. The song just intrigues me.