[From the Archives: Daily Prophet, December 2018]
Meet Your Minister for Magic: Duncan Armstrong
A Julia Turnbrook Exclusive; New Year, New Minister
While I am not unfamiliar with the gilded fireplaces of the Ministry’s Atrium, the stunning decor of Minister Duncan Armstrong’s very own office is another story. Lavish purple carpets with warm mahogany accents is a combination that sounds as bizarre as it is - but it works. I’m greeted by the Senior Undersecretary - Camilla Armstrong, the Minister’s very own sister - who leads me directly to the Minister’s office where a gorgeous spread of afternoon tea already awaits. First impressions of the Minister only prove how at ease he is. Quick to introduce himself, charming and charismatic, he offers me a gentle handshake and some refreshments - yes, ladies and gentlemen, I was waited on by the Minister himself!
With a cup of tea in hand, we both take a seat, and Duncan - he insists that I call him Duncan, readers! - dispenses of any unnecessary formality.
So, Duncan; tell us a little about yourself. I’m Duncan Armstrong, newly elected Minister for Magic, though 36th to hold such a prestigious title. Following Kingsley Shacklebolt would be a hard task for anyone, but I’m hoping to do those who voted for me proud.
You earned a job at the Ministry straight out of Hogwarts, isn’t that right? I certainly did. I was your typical Ravenclaw bookish-type, and politics had never particularly been on my radar. It was actually my sister who pointed out an opening at the Wizengamot Administration Services. We both applied and were both successful, thus starting our careers in the Ministry.
And your sister, who is here with us today, is now acting as your Advisor and Senior Undersecretary. What’s it like working so closely with family? Camilla and I are very lucky; we have an excellent work ethic and our morals are perfectly aligned, so it really helps to have someone of an identical mind in my team. We’ve developed a great dynamic over the years and I really wouldn’t be here today without her.
We like to ask the hard questions here at the Daily Prophet, Duncan, so I have to ask; your approach to the Being situation over recent years has been seen as very ‘modern.’ Do you think that affected your recent victory? Hard questions are important, so I’m glad you’re asking them, Julia - that’s why journalists like you are so vital. The topic is often a hard one because the reality is you can never please everyone, but you can certainly try your best. The changes I proposed during my campaign for Minister are already in motion and I hope the public will be pleased with how they’re executed. It’s clear that Wix are looking for a sense of security in this time of uncertainty, and I’m incredibly thankful for the opportunity everyone has given me to help provide that for everyone, Beings included.
Why not remind us a little about what you propose to do to ensure the safety of all magical people, Wix and Beings alike. I believe having a registry can help keep track of Being populations in our society, meaning we can offer the best help and assistance to those communities as and when it's needed. It also means, should the worst happen, we can pinpoint the problem and address it swiftly. I realise the apprehension many Beings have after the Muggleborn Registration Committee during Voldemort’s puppet Ministry, but I’m thankful for the confidence their community has found in me over the years and will always advocate for their safety. We will not have a repeat of that terrible year.
For our last question, it’s one I’m sure many people have been wondering; do you have any advice for young wix wanting to follow in your path? Hard work is imperative, but remember to be open-minded to the concerns of other people. Politics can be notoriously tricky, but I truly believe that having the capability to adapt to problems and address them in a responsible manner is a skill that can never be underappreciated. Oh, and always dress to impress.
