Standing Down 2017: Interviews with retiring MPs

by Rosa Prince

The 2017 general election has introduced us to dozens of new MPs who have entered the House of Commons, but it is also the perfect opportunity to reflect on those who have decided to stand down. In this second edition of the popular series, bestselling biographer and political journalist Rosa Prince speaks with MPs who left the parliamentary stage before the election, including big names such as Alan Johnson, Douglas Carswell, Sir Eric Pickles, Gisela Stuart and Peter Lilley.

Speaking candidly about their best and worst memories, their triumphs and regrets, their personal histories and future plans, these MPs provide frank and revealing insights into their time in Parliament, the historic events they participated in and their reasons for leaving – which are as diverse as their individual political journeys.

Standing Down 2017 casts a light on the fascinating careers of some of the most influential figures in UK politics in recent decades, and is a treasure trove of sage advice and pearls of wisdom for parliamentary newcomers and hopefuls alike.

Genres: Politics

244 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 31, 2017

Reviews

[chucklesthescot · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked the concept of this book-interviewing MPs who were planning to stand down at the upcoming election and not seeking to be re-elected. Each profile follows the same format and asks each person the same questions...how did you end up in Parliament, how did you feel becoming an MP, best political moments, worst political moments, why they are stepping down, advice to future MPs and if they have regrets about leaving. Then follows a biographical chapter telling the political story of the MP where they expand on their political thoughts and deeds and achievements, ending with a short CV of their career moments.

The book covers thirteen MPs from all parts of the political spectrum-pro and anti Brexit, Ministers, Backbenchers, Party Chairmen, Whips and Deputy Speakers. For Labour we have Shadow Minister Michael Dugher who was PPS to Ed Miliband, Pro Brexit and Vote Leave campaign's Gisela Stuart, Euro rebel Douglas Carswell who later became UKIP's first MP, Minister Iain Wright, former Home Secretary Alan Johnson, Government Whip Graham Allen, and Pro Europe Remainer Pat Glass.

For the Conservatives Euro Skeptic Minister Peter Lilley who was a thorn in the side of PM John Major, Sir Simon Burns who was inspired into politics by the murder of JFK, Government Whip Dame Angela Watkinson, Shadow Attorney General and Solicitor General Sir Edward Garnier, Party Chairman Sir Eric Pickles, and respected Deputy Speaker Sir Alan Haselhurst.

I was very interested in reading about Peter Lilley, one of the original Euro rebels who was causing chaos for John Major long before a Referendum was even being talked about. It was great to hear why he did certain things, the views he held on Europe and how Pro Europe Ted Heath tried to hamper his career, viewing him as a potential problem. I really enjoyed the Douglas Carswell chapter as he talked about his overwhelming desire to do what it takes to get a Brexit Referendum, and he was demanding one in Parliament before UKIP's arrival made it a better prospect. I liked reading about how he used UKIP to further his aims despite issues with the leadership and the racist elements within the party. It was also interesting to read about Gisela Stuart, the highest profile Labour Brexiteer and prominent Vote Leave MP.

I also liked reading about MPs that have always interested me. I thought that Alan Johnson was one of the most effective Labour MPs and Ministers and I liked his dry sense of humour. I certainly hope to read more about him. It was a pity that the Labour in fighting between Blair and Brown and outside issues beyond his control finished that ministerial career early. Likewise Sir Eric Pickles has always been an opinionated and never dull MP and it was always great to hear his opinions even if you didn't agree with him.

It was an interesting, light read covering various pro and anti EU opinions along with looks at careers in very different areas of Government.

[Salem Lorot · Rating 4 out of 5]

I work in Parliament. Reading this book gave me a better insight into the lives of Members of Parliament. I think having a Kenyan version of such a book could be illuminating. Thank you Rosa Prince for this incisive book.