First and Lasting Impressions

These essays capture Frank Field’s personal reflections on influential figures in public life across his remarkable 40-year political journey which has been spent campaigning against poverty and injustice. Field’s candid observations provide a captivating record of his encounters with key public figures, and as such offers a unique and insightful perspective on those who have shaped our social and political landscape.

The Rt Hon Frank Field was formerly Minister for Welfare Reform in Tony Blair’s first government. He was MP for Birkenhead for 40 years from 1979-2019. He now sits in the House of Lords and was made a Companion of Honour in 2022. He has spent his whole life fighting against poverty and injustice.