Labour Takes Power: The Denis MacShane Diaries 1997-2001

In 1997, Labour was on the verge of power, with Denis MacShane as a future Europe Minister. MacShane's diaries reveal the personal rivalries, slights, and petty jealousies between the party's big beasts, showing that it was never far from disaster. The diaries provide a unique insight into the personalities and politics of Labour's most successful stint in government.

Format: Hardback
Length: 448 pages
Publication date: 12 December 2023
Publisher: Biteback Publishing

The possibility of Labour forming the next government is an intriguing prospect, especially considering the last time the party was on the brink of power in 1997. During that period, future Europe Minister Denis MacShane had a front-row seat to witness a decade of significant events, including Cool Britannia, the Good Friday Agreement, Peter Mandelson's multiple resignations, Princess Diana's death, and Tony Blair's seemingly invincible reign. While New Labour may be remembered as an unstoppable force, MacShane's diaries reveal that beneath the surface, personal rivalries, slight, and petty jealousies between the party's prominent figures threatened to bring it to disaster.

MacShane, a regular in Downing Street since Labour's election victory, offers a candid and intimate glimpse into the lives of figures such as Tony Blair, Gordon Brown, Robin Cook, Peter Mandelson, Clare Short, and Alastair Campbell. His diaries shed light on their personalities and political dynamics, providing a unique perspective on Labour's most successful stint in government.

One of the most intriguing aspects of MacShane's diaries is his portrayal of Tony Blair. He describes Blair as a driven and charismatic leader who was determined to transform Britain and the world. However, MacShane also reveals the darker side of Blair's personality, including his willingness to manipulate and control those around him. He describes how Blair's inner circle became increasingly isolated and cut off from the rest of the country, and how his policies were often driven by a desire to consolidate power and control.

Gordon Brown, on the other hand, is portrayed as a more reserved and cerebral figure. MacShane describes how Brown was often overshadowed by Blair and struggled to assert his own authority within the party. He also reveals the tensions between Brown and Mandelson, particularly over economic policy and the Iraq War. MacShane's diaries provide a fascinating insight into the inner workings of Labour's government and the personal dynamics that shaped its policies and decisions.

Peter Mandelson, known for his controversial and divisive career, is also featured prominently in MacShane's diaries. MacShane describes Mandelson as a skilled politician who was able to navigate the complex web of political relationships and alliances. However, he also reveals Mandelson's penchant for self-promotion and his willingness to compromise his principles for personal gain.

Clare Short, who served as both Secretary of State for International Development and Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, is portrayed as a strong and determined figure who was committed to social justice and equality. MacShane describes how Short faced numerous challenges during her tenure, including the global financial crisis and the refugee crisis, but remained steadfast in her commitment to her principles.

Alastair Campbell, who served as Tony Blair's communications director and later as Prime Minister's chief of staff, is portrayed as a charismatic and influential figure who played a key role in shaping Labour's political strategy and messaging. MacShane describes Campbell as a master of spin and a skilled operator who was able to navigate the complex world of media and public relations.

Overall, MacShane's diaries provide a rich and detailed account of Labour's most successful period in government, offering a glimpse into the personalities and political dynamics that shaped the party's policies and decisions. While the diaries may not be without their flaws, they offer a valuable contribution to our understanding of British politics and the role of individual leaders in shaping the course of history.

Weight: 608g
Dimension: 241 x 160 x 35 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781785908392