Description
Book SynopsisIn this touching but also profound memoir, Field explains two key factors in his upbringing the poverty of his own childhood and the deep and lasting effect of his Christian socialism, as exemplified in the writings of F. D. Maurice and William Temple.Field has spent his adult life fighting against poverty in Britain, through parliament and through his strong personal influence. Poverty for him has injustice at its root and as he explains in this book, he has found allies on all sides of the political spectrum. He was appointed by Tony Blair to be the Secretary of State for Pensions, but the reforms he advocated were so radical and essentially just, that Tony Blair could not contemplate them and Field stood down. Previously he had been Chairman of the Work and Pensions Select Committee under John Major.As we read in this profound book, he has been involved in the Child Poverty Action Group (CPAG) and worked with George Osborne to pass the legislation for the Minimum Living Wage
Trade ReviewFrank Field is one of the most important, iconoclastic and remarkable politicians of his generation. This book is told with his Christian belief, regrets and all, and his trademark searing honesty. -- Nick Timmins
For the past half-century Frank Field has been an outstanding parliamentarian, social reformer and champion of the disadvantaged. He joined the Labour Party at the age of 16 and was expelled from it at the age of 78. -- Brian & Rachel Griffiths
The former MP’s outstanding new book blends memoir with incisive, practical ideas. [...] Few MPs have done so much to improve the voters' lives. This prophet was dishonoured in his own party, but thoughtful voters everywhere are grateful for his service. -- Tim Stanley, The Telegraph
Field has been a kindly light to lighten our politics. One wishes more MPs were as amiable and independent-minded, though every system does need its scoundrels and chancers. -- Quentin Letts, The Times
Field is a salutary role-model for those of us who tend to be politically or religiously tribal. -- Richard Harries, the Church Times
