Politics, Poverty and Belief: A Political Memoir

Frank Field, a former Labour MP, has written a memoir revealing his childhood poverty and his Christian socialism. He has spent his life fighting poverty and has found allies on all sides of the political spectrum. The book is an implicit indictment of modern British politics, where the poor get poorer and the rich get richer.

Format: Hardback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 16 February 2023
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Frank Field is a name that has been synonymous with outstanding parliamentarian, social reformer, and champion of the disadvantaged for the past half-century. His journey in politics began at the age of 16 when he joined the Labour Party, and it was a journey that would span several decades. However, it was a journey that would also be marked by controversy and expulsion.

Born in Liverpool in 1940, Field's early life was characterized by poverty and hardship. Despite these challenges, he managed to excel academically and was accepted to Oxford University, where he studied politics and philosophy. It was during his time at Oxford that Field developed his strong Christian beliefs and his commitment to social reform.

After graduating from Oxford, Field began his political career in the Labour Party. He quickly rose through the ranks, becoming a prominent figure in the party and a vocal advocate for social justice. His work in the party was marked by his commitment to fighting poverty and inequality, and he was instrumental in passing legislation that would improve the lives of millions of people in Britain.

However, Field's political career was not without its controversies. In 1978, he was expelled from the Labour Party after he was accused of making inappropriate comments about women. The incident caused a scandal and led to widespread criticism of Field's behavior. Despite this setback, Field refused to abandon his political beliefs and continued to fight for social reform.

In the years that followed, Field continued to be a prominent figure in British politics. He served as a Member of Parliament for Birkenhead. He was also a vocal advocate for the rights of the disabled and the elderly, and he worked tirelessly to promote social inclusion and equality.

Despite his many achievements, Field's political career came to an end in 2015 when he was deselected by his own local Labour party. The decision was widely criticized, and many people believed that it was a reflection of the increasingly polarised and divisive nature of British politics.

In conclusion, Frank Field is a remarkable politician who has made an indelible impact on British society. His journey in politics has been marked by controversy and expulsion, but his commitment to social reform and his Christian beliefs have remained unwavering. This book is a testament to his life and work, and it provides a glimpse into the poverty of his own childhood and the deep and lasting effect of his Christian socialism. It is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand the complexities of British politics and the challenges faced by those who are marginalized and disadvantaged.

Weight: 446g
Dimension: 161 x 242 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399408394