The book reappraises Neil Kinnock's policies, impact, legacy and leadership of the Labour Party 30 years on from his defeat in the 1992 general election. It offers comprehensively fresh perspectives and some first-hand accounts - some friendly, others more critical - from leading academics, journalists, politicians and advisors on various aspects of ideas, policy, elections and party management, including an interview with the man himself as he looks back on his experiences. This timely book will resonate widely with the current challenges to Labour's leadership and the enduring uncertainties on the future of the party.

This book will be of key interest to researchers and students in the fields of political studies and contemporary history as well as the interested general reader.

About the Author

Kevin Hickson is Senior Lecturer in British Politics at the University of Liverpool, UK.

Reviews

"Neil Kinnock is a very significant figure in post-war British politics. A detailed consideration of his period as a party leader is long overdue. With a wide range of contributors writing from different perspectives, this book is a useful addition to the canon of Labour history."

Nick Thomas-Symonds, MP, Shadow Secretary of State for International Trade

"This remarkable book offers a timely re-evaluation of Kinnock's controversial leadership, an under-researched yet crucial period marking the beginning of the 'modernisation' of the Labour Party's thought and organisation which bears obvious parallels with present day Labour. By combining academic as well as a range of practitioner accounts, including by key figures who worked closely with Kinnock, the book provides invaluable insights into the role and impact of party leadership in periods of opposition."

Emmanuelle Avril, Professor of British Politics at the Sorbonne Nouvelle University, France.

"The time is ripe for a reassessment of Neil Kinnock not least because the present situation of the Labour Party is in some respects similar to that which faced Kinnock after he became Leader of the party. This book fills that need and does so in an authoritative and comprehensive way. The possibilities and pitfalls which were open to Kinnock's leadership are laid bare in a fair and meticulous way. For anyone concerned about the future of progressive politics there is a great deal of food for thought and action."

Lord Raymond Plant of Highfield, Professor at King's College London, UK.

Book Information
ISBN 9781032184135
Author Kevin Hickson
Format Paperback
Page Count 268
Imprint Routledge
Publisher Taylor & Francis Ltd
Weight(grams) 480g